Jarren Duran

Passan notes that the Red Sox "are valuing Duran more like the seven-win player of 2024 than his 4-win version in 2025"; however, he also notes that Duran "has a ton of trade value because he's still in his 20s and has three years of control." Even if 2024 was an outlier, Duran has elite baserunning abilities and has been a solid run-producer atop the Red Sox lineup. With Wilyer Abreu proving to be a better defender and also being younger, it seems more likely that the Red Sox deal Duran this winter.

There is nothing in motion right now, but Speier notes that the Royals have specifically stated that nobody on their roster is "off limits." The Royals have shown a reluctance to deal veterans Seth Lugo and Michal Wacha, and they have said that Ragans would only be dealt if a "big return" was coming their way. However, the Red Sox have the pieces to put together that kind of return. The Royals are looking for a right-handed outfielder, but also reportedly "won't be tethered to the notion," which means the Red Sox could put together an offer that includes Jarren Duran, one of Connelly Early or Payton Tolle, and other prospects in order to acquire Ragans. It's also possible that the Red Sox might be willing to part with Kristian Campbell, who seems best suited for the outfield, but doesn't really have a place in Boston right now. This is a situation to monitor.

As we wait for the hot stove to heat up, this winter's trade market is already in motion.

This week's mailbag gets into the Grayson Rodriguez-Taylor Ward trade, the four accepted qualifying offers, the trade value of Jarren Duran and Wilyer Abreu, and much more. Nick asks: Hi, what is Mike Elias thinking selling low on Grayson? Ward is a good, not great, hitter, and Rodriguez's ceiling is an ace. You guys have…

This week's mailbag gets into the Grayson Rodriguez-Taylor Ward trade, the four accepted qualifying offers, the trade value of Jarren Duran and Wilyer Abreu, and much more. Nick asks: Hi, what is Mike Elias thinking selling low on Grayson? Ward is a good, not great, hitter, and Rodriguez's ceiling is an ace. You guys have…