Jarren Duran, an All-Star outfielder for the Boston Red Sox, and the team reached an agreement on Friday to avoid arbitration. The deal is a one-year contract worth $3.85 million, with an $8 million team option for 2026.
Duran will earn a salary of $3.75 million this year, and if the team exercises the 2026 option, the buyout would be $100,000.
The option price can increase depending on Duran’s performance. If he finishes in the top 20 in MVP voting, the option rises to $9 million, and it would go to $10 million if he finishes in the top 10.
If he ranks in the top five, the price goes up to $11 million, and if he wins the MVP award, the option would be worth $12 million. However, if he doesn’t finish in the top 20 but is named to the second team All-MLB, the option would be set at $8.5 million.
Duran has the opportunity to earn up to $150,000 in performance bonuses this year based on his plate appearances. He can earn $50,000 each for reaching 450, 500, and 550 plate appearances.
If Duran is traded, the option would be canceled, and the team that acquires him would owe him a $100,000 assignment bonus.
Duran, who is eligible for arbitration for the first time, had initially requested a raise from his $760,000 salary to $4 million. The Red Sox had offered him $3.5 million when figures were exchanged last week.
Last season, Duran finished eighth in MVP voting after hitting .285, with 21 home runs, 75 RBIs, 34 stolen bases, 48 doubles, and 111 runs.
There are still 15 players who are on track for arbitration hearings.
