Red Sox Trade Rumors: Padres 'Love' Jarren Duran, Says Heyman

Jarren Duran's time in Boston could be running out. MLB insider Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported on the Bleacher Report app this week that if the Red Sox trade Duran this offseason, it will "probably be to the Padres because they love him."

The Athletic's Dennis Lin added fuel, reporting that Boston and San Diego have had recent trade discussions centered on the 30-year-old outfielder, per multiple reports. There is no indication a deal is imminent, but the league-wide interest is real: several clubs have reached out to the Red Sox front office about Duran's availability.

Why Duran Could Be On The Move

The 2026 season was the worst of Duran's career. The former All-Star batted just .207 with a .627 OPS across 151 games, making him one of the least productive qualified hitters in baseball. That is a stunning fall from his 9.0-bWAR breakout campaign in 2024, and his production has now declined two straight years, from 4.9 bWAR in 2025 to 0.4 this season.

Even in a down year, Duran still offered 20 home runs and 21 stolen bases, his second career 20-20 season, and he remained an excellent defensive left fielder. Speed and pop always carry value, and a change of scenery could be exactly what restores his bat.

The money matters, too. Duran is due a raise in arbitration this winter, and reports indicate Boston does not want to pay the projected figure for a player coming off a .207 season. With 22-year-old Roman Anthony ready to take over in left field full-time, the Red Sox finally have a reason to act on trade talks they have entertained for years.

Why San Diego Fits

The Padres are a natural match. Left field was a weak spot for San Diego in 2026, with Dustin Harris and Samad Taylor platooning at the position after Ramon Laureano suffered a season-ending hip injury. Neither brings Duran's blend of power and speed, and Duran's salary for 2027 would not break San Diego's budget.

Duran is two years away from free agency, so the Padres would control him through a competitive window. San Diego's ongoing search for outfield help is well documented, and the club has admired Duran's game for a long time.

What's Next

With the World Series still to be decided between the Brewers and the winner of the Guardians-Rays series, the offseason market is only starting to take shape. Once free agency opens, expect Boston to move quickly on Duran if the right offer comes in. Craig Breslow's front office has a crowded outfield and a young star in Anthony to make room for, and the Padres keep coming up as the team to watch. For now, it is all rumor, but this one has too much smoke to ignore.