Padres trade proposal lands struggling Red Sox All-Star

The San Diego Padres have faltered on offense lately, having gone almost a month since scoring more than six runs in a game (they beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 8-2 on June 15). With the trade deadline approaching and their deficit to the Los Angeles Dodgers sliding to six games in the AL West, the Padres may need to make a splash move to bring some life into their lineup.

A move that would be sure to ignite a fire in the franchise would be a trade for Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran.

Duran burst onto the scene last season, finishing the year with a .834 OPS, 21 home runs, 75 RBI, and 34 stolen bases in what was his first All-Star season. This year has not gone quite as well, with his OPS dipping down all the way to .742.

Much can be said too of the Red Sox in general. They currently sit in fourth place in the AL East, right on the cusp of being a Wild Card team. Many in Boston had higher expectations, especially after blockbuster moves to bring in players like Garrett Crochet and Alex Bregman.

In their list of the 40 best players on the trade market, writers from the Athletic listed Duran as the best available player. They also listed the Padres as a potential fit, along with the New York Mets and Chicago Cubs.

The analysis listed for Duran said: "To be clear: There’s little reason for Boston to even entertain offers for Duran unless the return is substantial. His production has predictably fallen short of his 2024 breakout, but Duran remains a solidly above-average hitter with lots of speed and the ability to play center field.

"Perhaps most importantly, he’s under team control through 2028, making him a player that teams can build around. Of course, even with a sudden influx of stud prospects joining the lineup, the Red Sox could continue to build around him, too. The Padres have already been linked to Duran and surely they won’t be alone."

The Padres would have to put together a hefty package to get him, but if they are serious about winning the World Series within the next three seasons, it could be a necessary move to make.