The Boston Red Sox are going to be an interesting team to watch over the next few weeks leading up to the trade deadline. They are in the mix at 46-45, just 6 1/2 games back in the American League East.
They are also just 2 1/2 games back in the Wild Card race. But they are more of a fringe contender at the moment, and it's unclear if they can step up to true contender status.
If they remain on the fringes, they could look to sell certain pieces. One such piece that has been in trade rumors lately is outfielder Jarren Duran.
According to Jayson Stark of The Athletic, an American League executive predicts that Boston will trade Duran.
"I think they’re going to continue to do things that solve their long-term issues," the executive said. "So, I think Duran is probably in play for a lot of teams. … I think he’s the most likely of those players in their outfield to change teams."
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The Red Sox will certainly be interesting to follow over the next few weeks. Duran, a former All-Star, could bring back a haul of prospects if traded.
This would allow Boston to clear an everyday spot for top prospect Roman Anthony, who was recently called up to the Major Leagues. It might also allow them to address other needs of the roster.
Despite hanging around .500, Boston is still very much alive in the postseason race, even after the Rafael Devers trade, so they will have some tough decisions to make when the deadline arrives on July 31.
Trading Duran would be a bold move for sure, and Boston may not be comfortable making that move, but it could help them improve for the future and even clear a spot for other players.
It will be interesting to see how Boston operates in the coming weeks.
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