Padres Trade Deadline Takes Wild Turn After Red Sox Jarren Duran Decision
In a twist at the 2025 MLB trade deadline, the San Diego Padres’ aggressive pursuit of Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran, who is under team control through 2028, hit a roadblock. The Padres reportedly offered a significant package—including ace pitcher Dylan Cease, catching prospect Ethan Salas, and another unidentified prospect—but Boston quickly declined the proposal.
Despite the rejection, Padres GM A.J. Preller remains undeterred. Sources indicate he’s “still targeting” Duran. Yet, insiders like USA Today’s Bob Nightengale assert that Boston has “no plans to trade” Duran before the deadline, suggesting any move is more likely to happen during the offseason.
As the clock ticks closer to July 31, this standoff reflects a strategic chicken‑game scenario—one where Boston holds firm on Duran’s value, and San Diego continues probing for leverage.
As San Diego Considers ‘Big’ Move at Deadline, Eyes Replacement for Dylan Cease If Trade Gets Inevitable
Dylan Cease, a top-tier starter with a strong strikeout profile, has attracted interest from several teams. However, trading him could expose the Padres to rotational risk unless they can flip acquired prospects into another high-impact arm.
Should trading Cease become inevitable, the Padres are already contemplating replacements. Michael King’s anticipated return by August 10 could provide welcome relief.
On offense, San Diego is exploring alternatives to Duran. When Boston resists, the Padres reportedly have their eyes on other potential outfield targets like Steven Kwan, Ramón Laureano, and Luis Robert Jr.. Notably, Boston’s Wilyer Abreu has also emerged as a viable, controllable left-field option under team control through 2029—a possible pivot if Duran remains off-limits.
Even though the bullpen remains a strong suit, bolstering the rotation and plugging the left-field gap are priority tasks. The Padres may need to employ creative, multi-tiered trade strategies or involve a third team to pull off a “big” move at the deadline.
In Summary:
- Trade Deadline Fever: San Diego’s full-court press for Duran was rebuffed, yet they remain undaunted.
- Pitching Quandary: Trading Dylan Cease could weaken the rotation without strategic replacements.
- Plan B Ready: Backup targets like Abreu, Kwan, Laureano, and Robert Jr. are being assessed.
- Clever Maneuvering Required: With time running out, the possibility of a creative or multi-team deal is very much alive.
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