When baseball fans think of the 2027 offseason, free agency and trades aren't the first thing on their mind. But before the looming collective bargaining agreement negotiations and potential lockout, reporters predict a surge of moves similar to the trade deadline.
The Boston Red Sox will have some moves to make before the action stops for negotiations. If Sonny Gray walks and doesn't take his mutual option or a contract extension, they could use another righty starter in their rotation. Their outfield logjam also still lingers and it will become a problem if Roman Anthony can stay healthy.
Jarren Duran is still the obvious odd-man-out in the outfield group, maybe even more so after this season. He's the Sox's only starting outfielder who hasn't measured up offensively this season and he's yet another lefty in a lineup dominated by left-handed hitters.
MLB insider Mark Feinsand of MLB.com has named Duran in his early list of intriguing offseason trade candidates. His report mentions the stark downturn in his trade value since the 2024 season, after which he came in eighth place in American League MVP voting. The Red Sox will undoubtedly have to settle for a lesser return than they would've if they traded Duran shortly after his peak (when they should've made the move), but they should do it to free up some money and clear the outfield traffic headache.
The Red Sox finally must commit to trading Jarren Duran this offseason
Unfortunately, Duran's trade value is probably a lot less than it would've been a year and a half to two years ago. He's had an ugly season offensively with a .207/.263/.367 slash line, 157 strikeouts and 37 walks over 137 games. Duran has had some quiet highlights, however, like his 20 home runs and 69 RBI, but his double count has decreased dramatically from 41 last season to just 15 so far.
Duran has also had his fair share of drama in Boston, including many unsavory interactions with fans. His reputation preceding him could lower his trade value even more in the eyes of other teams.
However, they could see that a change of scenery would go a long way for Duran. Boston is famously — or infamously — a tough media and fan landscape to play in. A move to a different city could help Duran get out of his head and back into his groove from a few years ago, but his trade value has decreased all the same.
It's past time for the Red Sox to move on from Duran, even if they can't get the maximum value for him on the trade market. The 2027 free agent class is quite underwhelming so Duran could be an enticing option to teams in need of inexpensive outfield help.
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