The San Diego Padres have expressed interest in acquiring outfielder Jarren Duran from the Boston Red Sox, according to a report from Jon Heyman of the New York Post. Heyman states that multiple teams have reached out to the Red Sox about Duran, although no deal appears imminent. Dennis Lin of The Athletic also reports that the Padres have had recent trade discussions with the Red Sox regarding Duran, as they continue their search for outfield help. Lin also mentions that the Padres have considered bringing back outfielder Tommy Pham, but no formal offer has been made.
The Padres currently have a need for outfielders, with only Fernando Tatis Jr. and Jose Azocar as established MLB outfielders on their roster. They have non-roster invitees like Oscar Mercado, Bryce Johnson, and Cal Mitchell competing for a roster spot in spring training. However, there have been discussions about using top shortstop prospect Jackson Merrill in the outfield this season. Merrill, the team’s first-round pick in 2021, would need to be added to the 40-man roster.
Duran, a former top-100 prospect, had a breakout season in 2023 with the Red Sox. In 102 games, he batted .295/.346/.482 with eight home runs, 34 doubles, and 24 stolen bases. He improved his strikeout rate and showed above-average contact skills. However, his defense in center field has been below average. If acquired by the Padres, Duran could potentially play left field, while Azocar handles center field.
There are concerns about whether Duran can sustain his offensive production from last season. His high batting average on balls in play may not regress completely, but his tendency to chase pitches off the plate and his below-average contact rate on those pitches could affect his overall performance.
It remains to be seen if the Red Sox are willing to trade Duran, but their front office has changed since he was drafted in 2018. The Red Sox have other outfield options, including Tyler O’Neill, Ceddanne Rafaela, Wilyer Abreu, and Masataka Yoshida. They also have Roman Anthony, a highly ranked prospect, who provides additional depth.
The Padres have a need for outfield depth and are looking to manage their payroll. Duran, who will be arb-eligible next winter, could be controlled for five more seasons. The Padres are also exploring the free-agent market for rotation help, with Michael Lorenzen, Eric Lauer, and Hyun Jin Ryu being potential targets.
Lorenzen is coming off a strong season, although he struggled after a no-hitter performance. Lauer, a former Padre, had a breakout season in 2021 but struggled in 2023 due to injuries. Ryu pitched well for the Blue Jays following Tommy John surgery but had limitations in terms of innings pitched and velocity. All three pitchers could be available on short-term contracts.
The Padres have some financial flexibility, with a payroll of $159 million and a luxury tax projection of $215 million. Despite their efforts to cut spending, there is room for additional spending.
According to the Source mlbtraderumors.com