Three potential landing spots for Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran

The Boston Red Sox have already made one surprising trade this season.

Designated hitter Rafael Devers was unexpectedly traded to the Giants, a trade that may have been as much about removing a malcontent from the locker room as it was about the players received. Despite the drama, the Red Sox have been white hot of late, fighting their way into a playoff spot.

As such, the idea of trading outfielder Jarren Duran seemingly does not make sense. The problem is that the Red Sox have a very left-handed-heavy outfield mix. Young outfielder Roman Anthony is also left-handed, further complicating matters. Duran has three-and-a-half years of team control left and could bring back an impressive return if he became available. It is no surprise, then, that trade rumors swirl around the Red Sox outfielder.

The Red Sox do not necessarily need to trade Duran. However, let's take a look at three possible landing spots if he is dealt before the trade deadline, which is July 31 at 6 p.m. ET.

San Diego Padres

The San Diego Padres have long coveted Duran, having attempted to pry him from the Red Sox ahead of the 2024 season. That interest has not waned since, with Sean McAdam from MassLive.com reporting that the Padres have been "relentless" in their attempts to acquire Duran.

Left field has been a revolving door for the Padres this season as six different players have made over 10 appearances at the position. Duran would not only lengthen the Padres lineup, but he would provide a long-term solution in left. Padres general manager A.J. Preller has been known to find creative solutions to make trades happen; he may be able to find a way to land Duran after years of trying.

Kansas City Royals

There may not be a team that needs Duran more than the Royals. Royals outfielders have been among the worst in the majors, posting a mediocre .214/.268/.316 batting line with 15 home runs. Although Jac Caglianone should eventually be an impact bat in the middle of the lineup, he is still experiencing growing pains as he acclimates to the majors.

Duran would immediately upgrade the Royals outfield, adding a solid bat with some power and speed. He would be able to slot in as the leadoff hitter ahead of Bobby Witt Jr., giving the Royals a potentially lethal top of the lineup. While the 46-49 Royals may not be heading to the playoffs this season, adding Duran would be a step toward contending in 2026 and beyond.

New York Mets

The Mets made a splash in the outfield during the offseason, signing Juan Soto to a 15-year, $765M contract. While Soto and Brandon Nimmo are an impressive duo for any outfield, the Mets have a gaping hole in center. Tyrone Taylor is an excellent defensive outfielder but has a .211/.266/.314 batting line in 266 plate appearances. 

Acquiring Duran would allow the Mets to shift Nimmo back to center, giving them one of the best starting outfields in the majors. Although Nimmo is better defensively in left, he is capable of handling center field, saving three runs in just 24 games at the position in 2024. As the Mets are focused on winning the World Series, Duran may be the player they need to accomplish that goal.