In the last couple of days, it’s been reported that the Boston Red Sox could be looking to upgrade from outfielder Jarren Duran and will prioritize a frontline starter behind ace Garrett Crochet.
Jon Morosi of MLB Network is reporting that sources have indicated that the Kansas City Royals are seeking outfield reinforcements and that the Boston Red Sox are potential trade partners.
The Red Sox have been rumored to be looking for an upgrade over outfielder Duran, while MLBTR also identifies Wilyer Abreu as a trade candidate. Duran, who has an $8 million club option, carried an OPS of .774 with 16 home runs and 24 stolen bases across 696 plate appearances in 2025. Abreu, controllable through 2029, played in only 115 games, yet the 26-year-old still mashed 22 home runs to go along with six stolen bases. The Red Sox are looking to upgrade their pitching rotation, which makes a deal between the two even more sense.
The Royals have solid options as rotation upgrades in Cole Ragans and Kris Bubic. Ragans appeared in 13 games in the 2025 season, pitching 61 2/3 innings for the Royals. He posted a 4.67 ERA (3.00 FIP) with a strong K-BB rate of 29.7%. Bubic was an All-Star in 2025, throwing 116 1/3 innings with a 2.89 FIP and a 16.2% K-BB rate.
Do you think the Red Sox should trade for Ragans or Bubic? Let us know in the comments!