MLB Insider Links Red Sox to Royals in a Jarren Duran, Seth Lugo Trade Idea

MLB Insider Links Red Sox to Royals in a Jarren Duran, Seth Lugo Trade Idea originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The Boston Red Sox have seen outfielder Jarren Duran draw trade interest from around baseball this season. Plenty of teams would love to add the former All-Star Game MVP, but the Red Sox aren't going to move off him cheaply.

Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic made a new connection with Duran, which could have the Kansas City Royals interested in the outfielder. Rosenthal's trade idea would have Duran heading to Kansas City for an interesting return package.

"The athleticism of Boston Red Sox left fielder Jarren Duran makes him attractive to the Roylas," Rosenthal wrote. "As does his three additional years of club control."

But, for the Red Sox, the Royals' top trade chip isn't the best. Seth Lugo is a rental, as he's expected not to invoke his $15 million player option for 2026, meaning he'd be a free agent after this season.

"The Red Sox would not trade Duran for a pitcher who likely would amount to a rental," Rosenthal added. "But the Royals could sweeten the deal with prospects; teams are targeting their young catching, in particular."

Lugo is a 35-year-old veteran who has been around the league throughout his career, but has broken out with the Royals over the past two seasons. He was the AL Cy Young runner-up in 2024 and has been great again in 2025.

The Royals right-hander has a 2.94 ERA this season in 18 starts and 107 innings. He's struck out 93 batters, walked 31, and has a WHIP of 1.093. While solid numbers, he's not expected to be more than a rental.

Boston isn't planning to move Duran for anything not resembling a controllable starting pitcher. According to Rosenthal, the Royals are in a similar boat.

"If they trade right-hander Seth Lugo," Rosenthal wrote. "They will want controllable outfield help in return."

While Duran fits the description, and the Royals would have to move prospects to make such a deal work, the Red Sox are unlikely to consider it. Boston has an eye for the future, and Lugo is more of a rental.

Rosenthal linking the two teams is something to monitor as the deadline approaches. This trade idea is unlikely to pan out, but the Royals' interest in Duran could gain traction in the offseason or through a creative deal at the trade deadline.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 23, 2025, where it first appeared.