Overview
- The Padres have been relentless in pursuing Duran but their top pitching trade chips, Dylan Cease and Michael King, are on expiring contracts and don’t meet Boston’s need for long-term rotation help.
- The New York Mets view Duran as a center field upgrade who could shift Brandon Nimmo to left and add speed and versatility atop their lineup.
- Kansas City remains linked to Duran as it seeks to revitalize a struggling outfield, although the Royals may struggle to meet Boston’s starter-for-star threshold.
- Boston’s seven-game winning streak has reinforced its playoff credentials even as the front office weighs trade discussions.
- With the July 31 deadline looming, the Red Sox are holding firm on acquiring a controllable starting pitcher through 2026 or beyond in exchange for Duran.