The Arizona Diamondbacks sit at 41-42 but still appear positioned to remain in the National League Wild Card race as the MLB trade deadline approaches.

Although strengthening the starting rotation remains one of the team’s biggest priorities, the Diamondbacks also cannot rule out adding another outfielder if the right opportunity presents itself. Should Arizona pursue that path, several intriguing names could become available.

Zachary D. Rymer from Bleacher Report recently projected the Diamondbacks to complete a noteworthy trade with the Boston Red Sox, envisioning a change-of-scenery deal involving two outfielders who have struggled to meet expectations this season.

Rymer predicted Arizona would acquire Jarren Duran from Boston and suggested the Diamondbacks possess the right-handed bats the Red Sox are searching for. He also floated the possibility of a trade centered around former top prospect Jordan Lawlar in exchange for Duran, presenting it as an intriguing scenario for both organizations.

“Arizona Diamondbacks (40-39): They’ll get Jarren Duran from the Red Sox,” Rymer wrote.

“Arizona also has the right-handed sticks that Boston needs. Just to throw one idea out there, a gut-check trade of Duran for former top prospect Jordan Lawlar would be a lot of fun.”

While the Diamondbacks pursuing Duran would not be particularly surprising, the proposed framework involving Lawlar would represent a dramatic move for two franchises heading in different directions.

Lawlar is just 23 years old and remains under team control through the 2031 season. Although he has returned to the Injured List, his limited action this season offered encouraging signs regarding his long-term development. He has produced 0.7 bWAR in 12 games while hitting .316 with an .856 OPS across 38 at-bats.

Duran’s production has been far less impressive in 2026. Through 76 games, he has recorded 0.5 bWAR while hitting .200 with a .617 OPS in 305 at-bats. He also remains under team control only through the 2028 season.

On paper, adding a former All-Star Game MVP could certainly appeal to Arizona. However, sacrificing a young, controllable player such as Lawlar to complete that deal would be difficult to justify.

That does not necessarily mean Duran should be dismissed as a trade target. The Diamondbacks have received very little production from their left-handed hitters outside of Corbin Carroll, making another left-handed bat an area worth addressing before the deadline.

A first baseman would be a logical addition, while an outfielder such as Duran could also help balance the lineup. Considering Arizona’s lack of offensive production from left-handed hitters, even Duran’s current .617 OPS could provide value under the right circumstances.

There is also the possibility that he rediscovers the form he displayed during his 2024 All-Star campaign, when he finished with 48 doubles, 14 triples, 21 home runs, and an .834 OPS. A return to that level would make him an excellent fit for Arizona’s lineup.

Even so, Duran has not performed at that standard this season, making him a risky acquisition.

If Boston’s asking price truly includes Lawlar, the Diamondbacks would likely be better served exploring alternative trade targets who address the same need without requiring them to part with one of the organization’s most promising young players.

Beyond his numbers, Duran offers several qualities that continue to make him an intriguing player despite his struggles.

He plays with relentless energy and brings an aggressive style that can change the tempo of a game. His athleticism allows him to contribute in multiple phases, while his willingness to play with intensity has made him a respected teammate.

Duran has also demonstrated resilience throughout his career, overcoming setbacks and continuing to work toward improving his overall game. His competitive nature and confidence allow him to maintain an attacking approach even during difficult stretches, traits that many organizations value.

Coaches have consistently praised his effort, preparation, and commitment to becoming a more complete player. Those characteristics help explain why teams could still view him as a worthwhile trade target despite an inconsistent season.

In the right environment, surrounded by a strong coaching staff and a fresh opportunity, Duran possesses the mindset and physical tools to rediscover the form that once made him one of the American League’s most exciting outfielders.

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