On the same day that they got some horrible news on starting pitcher Lucas Giolito, the Boston Red Sox got some positive injury news on outfielder Jarren Duran, who left Tuesday's game with an ankle issue.
Per Ian Browne of MLB.com on social media:
"He's Okay. His ankle is a little bit tight but that's it. He'll play on Thursday." -- Alex Cora on Jarren Duran.
The Red Sox seem ticketed for a last-place finish in the American League East, but if they are going to impress or surprise anyone this season, Duran would figure to be a big part of it, so this news is certainly welcome.
The 27-year-old California native seemed to have something click in 2023, hitting .295 in 332 at-bats. He displayed a little bit of power with eight home runs and a lot of speed, hitting 34 doubles and stealing 24 bases.
Duran figures to hit at the top of the Red Sox' order in 2024, ahead of thumpers like Rafael Devers, Trevor Story and Tristan Casas.
Duran would also figure to have an everyday role in the outfield alongside Tyler O'Neill. The other Sox' OF spot would figure to be occupied by Wilyer Abreu and Rob Refsnyder, depending on the pitching matchup.
Duran is entering his fourth major league season, all with the Red Sox. He's gotten progressively better each year.
The Red Sox open up the season on March 28 on the road at the Seattle Mariners. That season-opening series at T-Mobile Park will be a four-game set.
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