Alex Cora, the manager of the Boston Red Sox, is navigating a challenging start to the 2025 season filled with player injuries and discontent among his stars. Amid these difficulties, he remains steadfast in his decision regarding outfielder Jarren Duran, despite calls for change.
Cora has indicated that he will keep Duran as the team’s leadoff hitter, even as the young player’s performance has been noticeably below expectations. Duran has accumulated a batting average of .253 with a .298 on-base percentage and a .376 slugging percentage over 208 plate appearances this season. These figures fall short when compared to his successful 2023 and 2024 seasons, where he enjoyed a significant impact with an OPS+ of 121 and 131 respectively.
Currently, Duran’s OPS+ stands at a disappointing 88, and he has not contributed to the team’s wins above replacement (WAR) stats yet, following an impressive 8.7 WAR in 2024. His struggles at the plate have been a factor in the Red Sox’s mediocre start, creating a sense of urgency for improvement.
Despite these challenges, there remains hope for the team. While Duran has faced a rough patch, Cora’s unwavering support could be crucial for his confidence and potential turnaround. The Red Sox still have a chance to vie for a postseason spot, emphasizing that with improvement from key players like Duran, the team’s fortunes could change.
Furthermore, Cora’s trust in Duran signals a commitment to developing talent, which could ultimately benefit the Red Sox in the long run.