Insider Connects Royals to Possible Trade for Red Sox All-Star
The Kansas City Royals have already made a flurry of moves, but their offseason activity may not be finished.
Coming out of the Winter Meetings, Kansas City added outfielder Lane Thomas on a one-year deal and acquired Isaac Collins via trade. While those additions addressed some offensive needs, the Royals could still look to further upgrade their lineup heading into the 2026 season.
According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Royals have continued to monitor a potential trade with the Boston Red Sox that could significantly enhance their offense. Kansas City has reportedly shown interest in this player throughout much of the offseason.
Royals Eyeing Red Sox Outfielder
Rosenthal reports that despite their recent moves, the Royals remain open to adding another outfielder — with Jarren Duran standing out as their top target — provided Boston reduces its current asking price.
As things stand, the Royals believe the cost for Duran would include ace Cole Ragans, a price they are unwilling to pay. A deal could become more realistic if the Red Sox were instead willing to consider pitchers such as Noah Cameron or Kris Bubic, though that scenario appears unlikely.
Boston is seeking starting pitching in return, but the high value they’ve placed on Duran has made negotiations difficult. Still, landing the All-Star outfielder would represent a major offensive upgrade for Kansas City, solidifying the outfield and reshaping the lineup for 2026.
The Royals are expected to compete for a Wild Card spot next season, but adding another impact bat could be the difference between contention and a postseason berth. Duran may be exactly the type of player they need.
In 2025, Duran posted a .256/.332/.442 slash line with 16 home runs, 84 RBIs, 24 stolen bases, a .774 OPS, and 4.7 WAR.
As the offseason continues, it remains to be seen what general manager J.J. Picollo has in store. A deal for Duran would make sense — so long as Kansas City can avoid parting with Ragans — but it will ultimately depend on whether Boston is willing to soften its demands.
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