The Boston Red Sox continue to explore ways to reshape their roster as they balance a crowded outfield with other roster needs, and one familiar name keeps surfacing in trade discussions. Outfielder, long viewed as a high-energy contributor and former All-Star, is once again being mentioned as a possible trade chip as Boston evaluates how best to align its personnel moving forward.
His name circulated in rumors throughout last season, but the Red Sox ultimately held onto him. That chatter, however, has not fully disappeared. According to MLB insider Jim Bowden of The Athletic, the situation in Boston’s outfield could reopen the door to trade conversations, with the Houston Astros emerging as a theoretical landing spot.
“There has been a lot of speculation that the Red Sox might trade Jarren Duran because they are planning on starting an outfield of Wilyer Abreu in right, Ceddanne Rafaela in center and Roman Anthony in left. Which leaves the 29-year-old Duran as the designated hitter,” Bowden wrote. “It’s not that they want to trade Duran. But if the return was either an infielder or starting pitcher who better fits with their current roster, they’d be open to it.
“They haven’t been close on a deal involving Duran yet, but that could change during spring training. The Astros could be a good match. They don’t have an obvious spot for Isaac Paredes to play this season now that they have Carlos Correa. And Houston needs outfield upgrades. If the Red Sox decide to keep Duran and listen on Abreu instead, the Astros would also be a good fit.”
On paper, a deal between Boston and Houston could make sense, potentially involving established major league players on both sides. Duran is scheduled to earn $7.7 million in 2026 and remains under team control for two additional seasons, factors that could enhance his value in trade talks.
Despite that perceived fit, Houston’s actual interest appears limited. Astros insider Will Kunkel reported on social media that the club is not actively pursuing the Red Sox outfielder.
“The Houston Astros are NOT in trade talks for Red Sox OF Jarren Duran, per source.”
That revelation adds uncertainty to Duran’s future. While he checks several boxes for Houston, the lack of interest raises questions about how realistic a deal truly is and whether Boston will find a partner willing to meet its asking price.
Last season, Duran posted a .256 batting average with 16 home runs and 84 RBIs for Boston, solid production that keeps him firmly on the radar around the league.
Even so, his standing with the Red Sox remains fluid. Though he has been a fan favorite thanks to his hustle and intensity, league insiders have suggested that Boston would consider moving him under the right circumstances. In December, MLB insider Ian Browne made it clear that any deal involving Duran would need to bring back meaningful value.
“If the Red Sox can put together a package that includes Duran that will land them an elite starter. Someone who could pitch near the front of the rotation in a postseason series. I believe it is very likely,” Browne wrote. “However, given Duran’s talent, the Red Sox aren’t just going to trade him to make it easier for Cora to divvy up the playing time in the outfield. It will have to be the right deal for Boston to move on from Duran.”
Duran, an All-Star in 2024, remains a valuable asset. Whether that value ultimately leads to a trade or keeps him in Boston will depend on how the Red Sox’ broader roster plans unfold.