ESPN insider David Schoenfield believes Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena could provide a blockbuster solution for the Boston Red Sox before Monday’s 6 p.m. ET MLB trade deadline.

In an article featuring proposals from ESPN's MLB experts, Schoenfield argued that the red-hot Red Sox should pursue Pena as they prepare for a potential postseason run. Boston recently tied a franchise record with 15 consecutive victories, despite relying on journeyman Tsung-Che Cheng at shortstop. Cheng joined the organization after being claimed on waivers four times during the offseason and entered the year well down Boston's depth chart.

"Pena would be the perfect addition for the Red Sox," Schoenfield wrote. "He's an upgrade on defense and would give the lineup a much-needed right-handed bat."

The proposal is an idea rather than a report that Boston and Houston have held trade discussions. However, the fit is easy to understand. Cheng contributed during the club's 2026 surge, but the Red Sox could still benefit from a more established everyday shortstop.

Pena would represent a substantial upgrade. As a rookie in 2022, the shortstop won a Gold Glove, American League Championship Series MVP and World Series MVP while helping Houston capture the franchise's second World Series title. He enters Wednesday's play hitting .319 with 11 home runs and an .877 OPS through 59 games on the season, adding legitimate offensive value to his defensive ability.

The 28-year-old infielder's right-handed bat would also help balance the Red Sox's left-leaning lineup. He is earning $9.475 million in the 2026 season and remains under club control through the 2027 season, so the Red Sox would acquire more than a two-month rental. His presence could also allow top prospect Franklin Arias to continue developing at Triple-A Worcester without being rushed into a potential pennant race.

Houston would need a compelling reason to move Pena. The Astros head into Wednesday at 54-55, sitting second in the AL West and only two games behind the Texas Rangers after winning seven of their last 10 games. Trading an everyday shortstop in his prime while still pursuing a playoff spot would require quite the return.

The Red Sox have the prospect depth to begin those talks. Arias, Anthony Eyanson and Justin Gonzales rank as the organization's top three prospects, while Schoenfield also raised Marcelo Mayer as a possible trade piece. Still, surrendering Arias or Mayer for a player eligible for free agency after the 2027 season would create a difficult long-term calculation.

Pena is an ambitious and logical target for Boston. Unless Houston abandons its playoff pursuit, however, Schoenfield's proposal appears more intriguing than truly realistic.