The Boston Red Sox are heading into the offseason with several key positions to address, and they have multiple strategies to consider in filling those gaps. After finishing the 2024 season with an 81-81 record, the team is well-positioned for a strong 2025 campaign. Boston’s roster is brimming with young talent, and many of their core players are still under team control with affordable contracts. This gives the Red Sox flexibility to either pursue big-name free agents or explore potential trades to improve the team.
One trade option being considered involves All-Star outfielder Jarren Duran, who had an impressive 2024 season. According to Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer, the Red Sox might benefit from trading Duran due to their surplus of left-handed hitters. While players like Triston Casas and Wilyer Abreu are also possible trade candidates, Duran’s rising trade value makes him an appealing option for a deal. Rymer argues that Duran’s value is at its peak following a stellar season, where he recorded 83 extra-base hits and outperformed stars like Juan Soto in terms of rWAR.
Duran, who will enter his first of four arbitration-eligible seasons in 2025, is projected to earn just over $4 million. Despite his strong performance in 2024, including a .285/.342/.492 slash line, 21 home runs, and a league-leading 48 doubles and 14 triples, Rymer points out that Duran is already 28 years old. His age and contract situation might make him a less-than-ideal long-term cornerstone for the Red Sox, even though he remains affordable for now.
Given Duran’s strong contributions to the team in 2024, any potential trade would likely require a substantial return to make it worthwhile for Boston. The team should be cautious about parting ways with a player who has proven to be both productive and affordable. However, the Red Sox are in a position to weigh their options carefully, especially if trading Duran could help fill other significant roster needs or net valuable prospects.
While trading Duran could free up space and provide additional flexibility, Boston must consider whether they want to deal one of their most consistent performers. Ultimately, any decision to move him will depend on the offers the Red Sox receive and how those potential trades fit into their long-term strategy. If the right deal comes along, the team may decide that moving Duran is in their best interest as they look to build a competitive roster for 2025 and beyond. However, the organization must ensure that the return for Duran justifies losing such a key contributor.
