With just under a week left in the regular season, through 155 games Duran is slashing .286/.344/.498, has 21 home runs, 34 stolen bases, an MLB-leading 47 doubles and is tied for the MLB-lead with 14 triples. Duran has also played elite outfield defense in center and left field. A first time All-Star, Duran was named the MVP of the Midsummer Classic after hitting a two-run home run off of Cincinnati Reds pitcher Hunter Greene.

While the Red Sox, who are currently 3 1/2 games out of the third and final American League Wild Card spot and would need close to a miracle to make the postseason, have disappointed this season, the 28-year-old Duran has given Boston fans something to be hopeful for in the future. His combination of pure-hitting, speed and defense make him one of the most valuable players in all of baseball.

Duran is expected to become a free agent after the 2028 season. He currently has four more years of team control and is on a very team-friendly contract. While Duran is a prime candidate for an extension, his contract situation gives the Red Sox lots of flexibility going forward and should help them be in position to spend going forward.