Red Sox Predicted to Replace Jarren Duran With Power Bat After Trade Rumors originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Trade rumors have been flying about Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran. They have only ramped up since Rafael Devers was dealt to the San Francisco Giant, as the organization now appears to be heading towards a youth movement at the MLB Trade Deadline.
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According to MLB.com’s Jim Callis and Jonathan Mayo, the Red Sox may have their replacement for Duran waiting in the draft at the 15th overall spot.
That player? Auburn University’s Ike Irish.
Irish is a powerful left-handed bat who has proven ability at the plate against top-tier collegiate pitching in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). He stands 6’2″, weighing 201 lbs. The junior out of Hudsonville, Michigan is the highest projected outfielder and catcher among both high school and collegiate prospects in Mayo and Callis’ mock draft.
“Boston can stick Irish in the outfield and let his athleticism and bat play,” Callis and Mayo wrote.
Auburn Tigers’ Ike Irish (18) celebrates after hitting a double against the Central Connecticut State Blue Devils during the NCAA Regional Baseball Tournament at Plainsman Park in Auburn, Ala., on Friday May 30, 2025.Mickey Welsh / Advertiser / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
With 24 doubles in his freshman year, 14 home runs in his sophomore season and then 19 home runs in his junior campaign, Irish has the power and an approach at the plate that should translate well to the professional level.
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His career batting average is .350, with a .435 on-base percentage. In 2024 he slugged a monster .710, with progression towards that number after each of his first two seasons.
MLB.com currently has Irish ranked as the 21st overall prospect in the draft, but once the College World Series concludes the rankings could be updated. The Red Sox could use a more polished bat out of the draft, and the college prospect could fill a need at a corner outfield position.
The 2025 MLB Draft is being held on July 13 and 14.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 23, 2025, where it first appeared.