FanSided’s MLB expert, Robert Murray, has put together a list of surprise trade contenders. On this list, Murray addressed Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran as a potential trade piece this season.
“Duran, 28, can play several outfield positions. Murray wrote: “He’s coming off a breakout season with the Boston Red Sox, hitting.285/.342/.492 with 21 home runs and 75 RBI.” “This season, he’s hitting.264/.312/.406, with four home runs and 34 RBI. The logic for trading Duran is clear: they’d be selling high on Duran while also freeing up space in the outfield for baseball’s top prospect, Roman Anthony, who should already be in the majors.
Murray says that the San Diego Padres have expressed interest in Duran this season, but a few other teams, like the St. Louis Cardinals, could be a good fit for the star.
A Red Sox-Cardinals trade for Jarren Duran make perfect sense
The Cardinals find themselves at something of a turning point. They looked poised to begin a major rebuild this season after allowing several veteran players to leave in free agency. Reports also indicated that St. Louis explored trade options for Nolan Arenado. However, the team has exceeded expectations with their performance so far.
Given their position, the Cardinals might consider trading players with expiring contracts, like Ryan Helsley, in exchange for younger, controllable talent such as Jarren Duran. A deal involving Helsley and prospects for Duran could end up being mutually beneficial for both teams.
As for the Red Sox, the strategy is clear, as Murray explains. Trading Duran now would mean capitalizing on his high value while he’s still under team control for several more years. Though parting with Duran would be a significant loss, the return—potentially headlined by Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley—could make it worthwhile.
Adding Jarren Duran would be expensive but forward-thinking
The Cardinals could consider bundling Ryan Helsley with starting pitcher Erick Fedde and several top prospects in a trade to acquire Jarren Duran. They might also include a high-upside pitching prospect like Tink Hence or Quinn Mathews to sweeten the deal for the dynamic outfielder. While the price tag may be steep, bringing in Duran would be a major step forward for St. Louis.
The team is in need of another talented young outfielder, and pairing Duran with Jordan Walker, Victor Scott II, and other promising players would significantly strengthen the Cardinals’ roster for the future.