Baseball valuations are a fascinating thing.
Kyle Tucker was just given $60 million per year to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers. And yet, Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has been worth more Wins Above Replacement over the last three seasons.
Duran is on the trading block, but no one expects him to get as much in return as a guy like Tucker would've if he was traded.
Why not?
Well, it apparently doesn't all come down to WAR, even if that's what it seems like sometimes.
I wonder what Jarren Duran, who is only four months older than Tucker and has a higher WAR over the last three seasons (15.5 to 14.8) might fetch in a trade in this market? Https://t.co/IzPNW8GxqU
— Matthew Gross (@MattGross87) January 16, 2026
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You would have to think the Red Sox will do pretty well if they trade Duran, though. This can't have hurt his cause.
It also helps because Tucker's signing means there's one less big-time outfielder available for teams who need help at that position.
Cody Bellinger is pretty much the only player of that ilk remaining on the free agent market. Once he signs, too, the best option teams might have is to try and trade for Duran.
Boston was probably right to be patient, whether it's been intentional or based on a lack of good offers. In the long run, it could allow them to fetch the best possible return.
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