Padres’ deadline hopes crushed after shocking trade rejection

With the MLB trade deadline fast approaching, few teams have been as aggressively tied to outfield upgrades as the San Diego Padres. And at the top of their wish list is Boston Red Sox sparkplug Jarren Duran.

What wasn’t clear was just how far the Padres were willing to go to land him. According to multiple reports, San Diego recently put together a significant offer centered around catcher Ethan Salas, the organization’s No. 2 prospect and one of the top catching prospects in all of baseball, and their ace right-hander Dylan Cease, who was supposed to be the Padres’ playoff ace down the stretch. An additional unnamed prospect, reportedly not top-ranked shortstop Leo De Vries, was also included in the proposal.

Red Sox turn down blockbuster proposal from Padres for star outfielder

Boston flat-out rejected it. Yes, a package featuring an elite teenage backstop, a frontline starter, and a third piece wasn’t enough to pry loose Duran. It’s a shocking development that suggests either the Red Sox are putting an extremely high premium on their breakout outfielder, or they have serious concerns about what was being offered in return.

On the surface, the offer seemed strong, maybe even tilted toward Boston’s favor. But there are two potential hang-ups. First, there’s Ethan Salas. As talented as he is, the 19-year-old catcher has battled health concerns early in his career, and his long-term durability might be a growing worry among front offices. Second, Dylan Cease is only under control through the end of 2025. 

As for Duran, he’s under team control through 2028 and is a spark plug for Boston at the top of the lineup. His power-speed combo, improved plate discipline, and defensive versatility make him the kind of player that’s hard to part with.

The Padres have been relentless in their pursuit of a left field upgrade, and Duran was seen as a perfect stylistic fit — an athletic, left-handed bat who could lengthen their lineup and bring energy to the top of the order. But with Boston turning them away, it’s back to the drawing board.

San Diego is exploring other options, including Ramon Laureano, Luis Robert Jr., and even Kyle Stowers. But it’s clear they were willing to swing big. Now, the focus may pivot to other controllable outfielders who can make an impact in both 2025 and beyond.

The rejection may sting in the short term, but it also raises the stakes heading into the final days of the deadline. AJ Preller has never been shy about making bold moves, and the Padres still have the assets to make something happen.

More San Diego Padres News and Rumors