The Boston Red Sox couldn't ask for much more out of young outfielder Jarren Duran right now.
The 26-year-old entered the 2023 season without a solidified role. He was impressive in spring training for the Red Sox, but failed to make the big league club out of spring training and began the season with the Triple-A Worcester Red Sox. Duran once was one of Boston's highest-rated prospects but struggled in parts of two big league seasons. He didn't find his footing in 2021 or 2022 and some even wondered if Boston would deal the young speedster, especially after the club acquired slugger Adam Duvall this past offseason.
Duvall was red-hot to begin the 2023 campaign, but an injury opened the door for Duran to make his way back to the big leagues and has made the most of his extended opportunity. The 26-year-old has been one of Boston's best players and has seen improvement virtually across the board. Duran has slashed .305/.356/.479 in 64 games to go along with four home runs, 25 doubles, 29 RBIs, and a team-leading 15 stolen bases. Duran's defense in center field also has drastically improved.
The young outfielder has been so impressive this season that he even has made Red Sox history. Duran is the first player in team history to log 15 stolen bases and 25 doubles in the first 65 games of a season, according to SoxNotes' J.P. Long.
If Duran can keep up his current pace, he could be a star in the making. The 26-year-old entered the big leagues with questions about his defense, but high expectations offensively. Duran has elite speed and impressive pop but was unable to showcase it fully in his first two seasons. He made some tweaks to his batting stance in spring training and they clearly have made an impact. Duran's speed alone is a game-changer, but if he can continue playing solid defense and getting on base, he may end up being an All-Star at some point.
All in all, Red Sox Nation should love what it is seeing from Duran right now.
More must-reads: