Red Sox Secure Duran with $3.85M Deal, $8M Team Option for 2026

BOSTON — The Boston Red Sox and outfielder Jarren Duran avoided arbitration Friday by agreeing to a one-year contract worth $3.85 million, which includes an $8 million team option for 2026. The deal also features performance-based escalators and bonuses tied to MVP voting and plate appearances.

Duran, 27, will earn $3.75 million in 2025, with the option carrying a $100,000 buyout. The option value could increase significantly based on his performance: $9 million if he finishes among the top 20 in MVP voting, $10 million for a top-10 finish, $11 million for a top-five finish, and $12 million if he wins the MVP award. If he is not among the top 20 but is selected for the second team All-MLB, the option would be set at $8.5 million.

The contract also includes $150,000 in performance bonuses for plate appearances: $50,000 each for reaching 450, 500, and 550 plate appearances. Additionally, if Duran is traded, the option would be voided, and the acquiring team would owe him a $100,000 assignment bonus.

Duran, who was eligible for arbitration for the first time, had requested a raise from $760,000 to $4 million, while the Red Sox initially offered $3.5 million. The agreement comes after a breakout 2024 season in which Duran finished eighth in MVP voting, batting .285 with 21 home runs, 75 RBIs, 34 stolen bases, 48 doubles, and 111 runs scored.

“Jarren has shown tremendous growth and impact on the field,” said Red Sox General Manager Brian O’Halloran. “This deal reflects our confidence in his continued development and contributions to the team.”

With Duran’s contract settled, 15 Red Sox players remain on track for arbitration hearings. The team is working to finalize agreements ahead of the upcoming season.