​With the first half of the season and the All-Star Game in the rearview, the New York Yankees will now pivot to making a run at locking up home-field advantage in the 2026 playoffs. While they open up the second half of the schedule Thursday against the Los Angeles Dodgers with the second-best record in the American League (54-42), they could be even better.While they have, arguably, the best rotation in the AL, their batting order has underwhelmed despite Ben Rice and Cody Bellinger earning All-Star honors this month. The biggest problem is reigning MVP Aaron Judge going down with a rib injury in May. Unfortunately, there is still no timeline for his return.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe Yankees are legitimate contenders in the AL, but they need to improve the roster before the Aug. 3 trade deadline — and get Judge back healthy. With that in mind, we look at eight impact players New York should target in the next couple of weeks, including two players from in-city rivals the New York Mets.IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectThe Yankees and Mets rarely make trades, but this year could be one where it is in both clubs’ best interest. This is a lost season for the team in Queens as they begin the second half with the fourth-worst record in baseball. They need to sell. Interestingly enough, they have trade chips the team in the Bronx would want.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAustin Wells continues to be a detriment whenever he heads to the plate. While former Mets top prospect Francisco Alvarez isn’t an elite catcher, he would still be a major upgrade over what the Yanks currently have. Furthermore, he is solid behind the plate and is well-liked in the clubhouse.The Yankees are also expected to look for more help in the bullpen. That is why Luke Weaver being a part of a trade should be considered. The Yanks should never have let him walk in free agency, and the 32-year-old having another great season is proof. If New York were willing to part with a top prospect like Spencer Jones as part of a deal, the Mets might consider it.IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectIn a perfect scenario, there is one player the Yankees would love to get: San Diego Padres closer Mason Miller. While the Pads are still in the Wild Card hunt, they would be better off selling with Miller’s value as high as it’s ever been.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWhile he will cost the Yankees a lot, they can get an elite closer who is only 27 and under team control for three more seasons at a bargain rate. New York knows the value of a shutdown closer in the playoffs, and Miller is one worth splurging on.IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectLike the Mets, the San Francisco Giants are one of the biggest disappointments in MLB this season and are another big-market club that should be sellers before the deadline. That is why veterans like Matt Chapman and Luis Arraez should be on the Yankees’ radar.Chapman has long been a rock-solid everyday 3B who brings power