The Boston Red Sox must decide whether to bring back Jarren Duran and Masataka Yoshida next year.
Duran was an All-Star in 2024, but has steadily declined over the last two seasons. Yoshida signed a five-year, $90 million deal before the 2023 season, but has not lived up to expectations. He has played in just 142 games in the last two seasons and has $18.6 million remaining on his deal.
Between Roman Anthony, Ceddanne Rafaela and Wilyer Abreu, there is no real spot for either Duran or Yoshida on the team. Perhaps things would be different if they were stars at the plate and could be used in a rotation as a designated hitter.
"With that trio in place for years, Duran and Yoshida reside in a familiar state of limbo," wrote The Boston Globe's Alex Speier. "Either can contribute but the Sox are open to moving one or both."
Moving both Yoshida and Duran is the right move. The team needs to add a power bat and will need somewhere to play him. That means they cannot waste the designated hitter spot on getting Duran and Yoshida at-bats.
Duran's trade value has tanked since his All-Star season, and Yoshida's contract will make him difficult to move. However, Duran has the potential to be a dynamic offensive player who may just need a change of scenery.
Yoshida may not have the power the Red Sox expected, but he does not strike out or whiff a lot. He could be a good fit on a team that values those qualities more than others.