If the Seattle Mariners truly want to compete in 2025 while also laying the groundwork for long-term success, He could be an ideal trade target before the July 31 deadline.
The 28-year-old outfielder from the Boston Red Sox brings exactly what Seattle’s lineup is missing: explosive athleticism and left-handed offensive versatility. With top-tier speed, a steadily improving bat, and the ability to influence games in various ways, He would bring much-needed energy to a Mariners offense that has struggled with consistency this season.
He suits the Mariners perfectly, and he might actually be available
His status as a trade candidate has shifted from speculation to a real possibility.
According to The Athletic’s Jayson Stark, one American League executive identified Him as “the most likely” of Boston’s outfielders to be moved. On Sunday, Dennis Lin of The Athletic also noted that the San Diego Padres remain “enamored” with Duran, suggesting Boston’s crowded outfield could make the 2024 All-Star expendable.
Duran isn’t just a recognizable name on a high-profile team—he’s a legitimate impact player entering his prime. Under team control through 2028, he fits perfectly with Seattle’s long-term strategy of acquiring controllable talent, much like their previous additions of Luis Castillo and Randy Arozarena. The Athletic recently listed Duran as the top potential trade candidate, reflecting his strong value. He brings top-tier speed, strong defense, good bat-to-ball skills, and enough power to be dangerous at the top of a lineup.
The Mariners’ front office has a clear interest in players like Duran—those who offer team control, athleticism, and defensive versatility. With the ability to play all three outfield spots, Duran could provide a long-term answer in center field if the team chooses to reduce the physical demands on Julio Rodríguez or could shift to a corner outfield role based on roster needs.
Duran would immediately become one of the most athletic players on Seattle’s roster—a quality they currently lack. Even in what’s considered a “down year,” with a .258/.318/.431 slash line and a 103 wRC+, he represents a substantial upgrade to the Mariners’ outfield.
Acquiring him won’t come cheap, but it’s a move Seattle has the resources to make. With a loaded farm system and a widening contention window, the Mariners could afford to part with prospects. They also recently added one of the draft’s top talents, further boosting a system that already boasts up to nine top-100 prospects.
Seattle and Boston have had deep trade discussions since the offseason, so both sides are well-acquainted with each other’s systems—something that could speed up a deal. With Boston hovering on the edge of the postseason race in a tightly contested AL East, they may view now as the right time to sell high on Duran and address other roster needs.
For the Mariners, acquiring Duran isn’t just about chasing the playoffs in 2025—it’s about adding another cornerstone to a young core that already includes Rodríguez, Cal Raleigh, George Kirby, and Logan Gilbert. Though the price will be steep, Duran is exactly the kind of high-impact acquisition that could transform Seattle into a true AL contender.
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