The Red Sox went into the All-Star break with a whimper, losing three of their last four games. Now, they appear to be ready to come out of the pause with a bang.
Outfielder Jarren Duran, the Red Sox’ second-ranked prospect by to SoxProspects.com, is expected to be called up for the first time during this weekend’s four-game series against the Yankees. According to Joe McDonald of the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, “Duran will not be in the lineup for the nightcap [of the WooSox’ Wednesday doubleheader]. In fact, he’s not in the building and is on his way to New York to join the Red Sox tomorrow and could make his major league debut against the Yankees.”
If he does end up playing this weekend, Duran wouldn’t be the first Red Sox outfielder to play his first MLB game at Yankee Stadium. Jackie Bradley (2013) and Mookie Betts (2014) also made their debuts in the Bronx.
Duran has quickly flown through the Red Sox farm system since getting drafted in the seventh round in 2018. This season in Worcester, he’s slashing .270/.365/.561 with 15 home runs and 32 RBIs in 46 games.
This move by the Red Sox was telegraphed a few weeks ago. Duran seemed to be destined for the US Olympic Team. However, he didn’t end up being selected to the final roster, in part because there were worries about the logistics of him being called up before or during the tournament.
Before the Duran move becomes official, the Red Sox have just two true outfielders on their roster in Alex Verdugo and Hunter Renfroe. Kiké Hernandez and Marwin Gonzalez have also played in the outfield at times this year. Where Duran will fit in the outfield rotation is to be determined.
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Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.