After a disappointing exit in the wild-card series at the hands of the Chicago Cubs, the San Diego Padres may once again be primed for a busy offseason filled with big moves.
General manager A.J. Preller has a reputation for aggressiveness on the trade market, having acquired Mason Miller from the Athletics at this year’s deadline. During his tenure in San Diego, Preller has also brought in Dylan Cease and Juan Soto via trade, while signing Yu Darvish, Xander Bogaerts and Manny Machado to major free-agent deals.
According to Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer, Jarren Duran of the Boston Red Sox could be Preller’s next target. Rymer’s proposed deal would send both Duran and Masataka Yoshida to San Diego in exchange for reliever Jeremiah Estrada and the Padres’ top prospect, Ethan Salas.
If Luis Arraez departs in free agency, Yoshida’s contact-hitting ability could make him a suitable replacement. However, adding two outfielders could create a logjam with Fernando Tatis Jr. and Jackson Merrill already in the mix. The team is also expected to exercise Ramon Laureano’s option, further crowding the outfield picture.
The Red Sox, meanwhile, may be open to moving Duran for similar reasons. With Ceddanne Rafaela, Wilyer Abreu and top prospect Roman Anthony vying for playing time, Boston’s outfield is deep. Estrada would give the Red Sox a capable bullpen arm, while Salas remains one of baseball’s most promising young catchers despite recent struggles.
Given that Duran was linked to the Padres at the 2025 trade deadline, it wouldn’t be surprising if Preller revisits the possibility of another bold move this winter.
