The New York Yankees are poised to surprise some skeptics in 2026. While their offseason was relatively quiet, choosing to stick with familiar faces like Cody Bellinger, the return of Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon from injuries will feel like fresh additions. Yet, there's a compelling case for the Yankees to make a strategic trade before Opening Day.
Anthony Volpe, recovering from an injury, might not be ready for the start of the season. Even if he is, Volpe hasn't quite lived up to the high expectations in New York. With the Yankees eager to clinch a World Series title, questions linger about Volpe's role as the team's future shortstop.
Offensively, Giancarlo Stanton is battling elbow issues, which could affect his performance despite his determination to play through the pain. Meanwhile, Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, and Jazz Chisholm Jr. are set to anchor the lineup. However, to truly bolster their World Series chances, the Yankees should consider adding another bat, and Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams might just be the ideal candidate.
Abrams, now 25, was a top prospect with the San Diego Padres before being traded to the Nationals in the Juan Soto deal. Since then, he has continued to develop, earning an All-Star nod in 2024. Although he missed the All-Star team in 2025, Abrams posted a solid .257 average with a .748 OPS, 19 homers, 35 doubles, and 31 stolen bases.
If Volpe isn't ready, Jose Caballero might start at shortstop on Opening Day, highlighting the Yankees' uncertainty at the position. Given their need for an additional bat and the shortstop dilemma, acquiring Abrams seems like a smart move.
Of course, any trade involves mutual interest. Would the Nationals be open to dealing Abrams?
Washington's initial rebuild attempt post-Juan Soto trade didn't pan out as hoped. MacKenzie Gore, another piece from the Soto trade, was shipped to the Texas Rangers this past offseason, signaling another rebuild phase for the Nationals.
With Abrams under team control through 2028, the Nationals aren't pressured to trade him now, but doing so before Opening Day could maximize his value. The Yankees, with top prospects like Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones, might have the assets to entice Washington. There's also the possibility of including Volpe in a deal for Abrams.
As the Nationals navigate their rebuild, they'd likely be open to listening to offers for Abrams. Whether a deal happens before the season starts or closer to the trade deadline, acquiring Abrams could address two significant uncertainties on the Yankees' roster for 2026.