New York claimed Cubs first baseman Carlos Pena off of waivers, according to multiple reports. Per waiver rules, the two teams have 48 hours to make a deal, but according to Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal, a deal is unilikely.
Even Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has said a trade of any sorts isn't likely.
"I said I think it'd be very unlikely we make a trade," Cashman told MLB.com's Bryan Hoch. "I'd be surprised if we end up doing it. … I'm going to continue to scan everything, but no, I'm not optimistic of anything. I think this is most likely what we've got."
However, it may make some sense for both sides to make a deal. From the Cubs' perspective, it makes sense considering Pena will be a free agent after this season. They could hypothetically make a move, get a prospect and then re-sign Pena at the end of the season. From the Yankees' side of things, Pena could be a solid backup behind Mark Teixeira.
As he has for much of his career, Pena boasts a meager batting average, but has shown some real pop this season. He's hitting only .223 this season, but he has hit 23 home runs and driven in 67 RBIs. He would, of course, be even more of a threat playing in Yankee Stadium with the short porch in right field.
The deadline for the two teams to make a deal is Friday at 1 p.m. ET.
