The Boston Red Sox have been itching to make a last-minute move before the start of spring training. First, Kenley Jansen's name was in the press because Boston has been taking calls for the closer.
Now, there's another Red Sox name reportedly in trade talks.
Jarren Duran has been brought up in trade speculations multiple times throughout the offseason, but discussions surrounding the outfielder have recently intensified.
MLB insider Robert Murray confirmed that the Padres were interested in Duran and the rumors of a trade have Red Sox fans conflicted.
The Red Sox and Padres have had trade discussions around Jarren Duran, per @ByRobertMurray pic.twitter.com/CIZD8jsMWa
— B/R Walk-Off (@BRWalkoff) February 9, 2024
Duran had a breakout 2023 campaign and cemented himself as part of Boston's starting nine until his season ended in late August due to turf toe, which he needed surgery to repair. Duran batted .295/.346/.482 with an .828 OPS in 102 games last season.
The 27-year-old is valuable on the base paths, and Baseball Savant ranks him accordingly — his speed falls in the 96th percentile in the league and his base running value came in even higher in the 97th percentile.
Many Red Sox fans have reservations about Duran's capability to replicate last season's production. He strikes out often and doesn't walk frequently enough to balance it out. Duran racked up 90 strikeouts and just 24 walks last season. He also isn't an outfielder by trade and is still coming into his own in center field. He finished the season with a 0 OAA and Baseball Savant ranks his arm strength just above average.
Red Sox and Padres discussed a trade involving Jarren Duran
But a lot of Sox fans see Duran's upside. He served the Sox well as a leadoff hitter last season, as his speed allows him to reach base on a lot of close calls. His ability to steal bags also helps the team increase run scoring opportunities, which have been an issue in Boston for a couple years.
The part of Red Sox Nation that wishes to hold onto Duran doesn't see a valuable return coming from the current Padres squad. Some have theorized that San Diego may have to give up prospect pitcher Dylan Lesko for Duran's services — not only does such a deal deprive the Sox an MLB-ready player, but the Padres seem unwilling to make such an exchange.
San Diego also could've thrown a wrench in the plans by signing Jurickson Profar on Monday morning. The Padres are still in need of depth in the outfield, but signing Profar eliminates some of the need for a trade with the Sox, especially if they believe Boston is asking for too much.
Seeking a trade for Duran seems like a desperate move for both San Diego and Boston. Duran's value is still up in the air, and both sides seem to be far off in discussions. Unless the Red Sox can somehow swing major-league-ready talent out of the deal, dangling Duran in talks doesn't seem worth it.