Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran is more than happy to cede center field responsibilities this summer. Ceddanne Rafaela split time in center (72 starts) and at shortstop (71 starts) in 2024 but will likely handle everyday duties in CF in 2025.
This is not a detriment to Duran’s defense, where he demonstrated excellent range and arm strength last year, but a testament to Rafaela’s athleticism and determination to handle the tricky corridors of Fenway Park.
Despite moving to left field and dealing with the challenges of the Green Monster, Duran is more than happy to play that position to give his 24-year-old teammate more playing time.
"A lot of things that people don't think about are that left field, when the ball is carrying back, is going to come back into play," Duran told MLB Network about what's needed to play left field at Fenway Park.
"I'm more than happy to move to left field because that'll give Rafa a chance to win a Gold Glove in center. I don't even want to touch right field because we got a Gold Glove over there now."
The now 28-year-old enjoyed a breakout 2024 campaign with career-highs in nearly every category, including home runs (21), doubles (48), stolen bases (34) and OPS (.834). Despite his budding ascension into superstardom, Duran remains focused on what’s best for Boston.
He could have been egotistical, insisting that he handle the more high-profile defensive position. However, he knows that winning cures all and playing in left gives the Red Sox its best chance to reach the postseason for the first time since 2021.
Duran will still have a lot on his plate in LF — particularly with the Green Monster and its unique crevices — but running around less on defense should save his legs for what could be another 30-swipe season.
He is an invaluable piece to this franchise and one of the cornerstones of a roster filled with savvy veterans and exciting up-and-comers. A lesser load on the defensive side of the ball should allow him to excel out of the leadoff spot.
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