The “Blockbuster Theory” you’re referencing—trading Jarren Duran for a lefty ace with a 3.14 ERA and a $13 million salary—is currently the most talked-about, logical trade proposal for the Boston Red Sox this offseason.
The specific pitcher being discussed is LHP Kris Bubic of the Kansas City Royals. While the reported ERA and salary figures are close to his projected value, the trade’s ultimate goal is a masterstroke because it perfectly solves the two biggest roster issues for both teams.
The Pitcher: Kris Bubic
| Statistic | Value (2025 Projected) | Notes |
| ERA | 3.14 (Projected) | His 2025 actual ERA was 2.55, but his current value is based on projections following a shoulder injury that limited his innings. |
| Salary | $13.7M (Projected) | The figure is close to his arbitration projection for the 2026 season. |
| Control | 1 Year (Free agent after 2026) | This is the limiting factor, making the trade a bit of a risk/reward move for the Red Sox. |
Why This is a “Masterstroke” for the Red Sox
The Red Sox have an acute need for starting pitching and a massive surplus in the outfield. This trade would instantly address both:
- Solving the Outfield Logjam: Trading Duran (who had an All-Star season in 2025) would clear the path for the future outfield core of Roman Anthony, Ceddanne Rafaela, and Wilyer Abreu.
- Acquiring Controllable Pitching: Bubic would immediately slide into the rotation as a high-upside No. 3 or No. 4 starter, pairing with Garrett Crochet and Sonny Gray to form a solid top half of the rotation.
- Perfect Fit for the Royals: The Royals are desperate for high-end offense and could install Duran as their everyday center fielder and leadoff hitter, providing a true centerpiece alongside Bobby Witt Jr.
The Key Trade Challenge
Since Bubic is only controllable for one more season (2026), the Red Sox would likely have to add a secondary prospect to Duran to make the deal fair for the Royals. However, the one-for-one swap of a surplus area for a need area is why this trade theory is viewed as a true organizational masterstroke for Boston.
