As the July 31 MLB trade deadline approaches, the Boston Red Sox are evaluating their options involving Jarren Duran trade deadline prospects. The team might consider trading left fielder Jarren Duran, whose performance has declined this season but who remains well-liked by teammates and fans. Any effort to acquire a top starting pitcher expected to contribute beyond this year would likely begin with Duran as a key part of the deal.
Despite having an abundance of outfielders, according to team insider Sean McAdam, the possibility of Duran being traded soon is low.
On a MassLive livestreamed mailbag, McAdam commented:
I would say it is unlikely that Jarren Duran is dealt in the next week. I would not make it a—never say never, that it couldn’t happen. But my guess is that it is not going to happen by next Thursday. They have made it clear that they’re ready to listen on him if there is a deal in front of them that they think makes them better not just in the next two-plus months but in the years to come, then they would at least entertain it.
—Sean McAdam, Team Insider
Recent Decline in Jarren Duran’s Performance
Jarren Duran’s numbers this season have not matched his breakout, All-Star campaign last year. Currently, he is batting .254 with nine home runs and 25 doubles, a drop from last year’s .285 average, 21 homers, and a league-leading 48 doubles. However, he still leads the American League with 10 triples this season, just shy of last year’s league-high 14. His on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS) has decreased from .834 to .748.
Duran’s energy and determination continue to be a defining feature of his contribution to the Red Sox. With three years remaining before he reaches free agency, his long-term value to the team remains significant. While the San Diego Padres have shown interest in Duran, other teams are reportedly also looking at him.
Major Trade Expected More Likely After Season Ends
The Red Sox appear hesitant to move Duran during the current season, partly due to concerns it could disrupt team chemistry. It may be more feasible to consider such a significant trade in the offseason, when the roster can be reshaped and team dynamics rebuilt from the ground up.
Given Duran’s current status and the timing, any large trade involving him will probably wait until after this season concludes, allowing the Red Sox to plan more strategically for future seasons with a refreshed roster.