Jarren Duran isn't getting too ahead of himself before closing out the first half of the 2024 season and representing the Boston Red Sox in the MLB All-Star Game in Texas.
The 27-year-old, who last season didn't even secure an Opening Day roster spot, now stands tall as one of three Red Sox voted into this season's Midsummer Classic alongside Rafael Devers and Tanner Houck. It's the first time Duran's ever been voted to an All-Star Game, and the mental approach for Boston's speedy outfielder could be described as cautious.
"I'm still trying to be proud of myself for being an All-Star and where I'm at," Duran told MLB Network Radio on Friday. "I feel like it's just my mindset that I can't get too excited cause I feel like the game will humble me. So I'm always keeping my head down and just going. Maybe seeing my family will open my eyes that I should be proud of myself for getting this accomplishment, but until I see them, I feel like it's just gonna be me grinding away. But I am thankful that I have such a good team and coaching staff around me that keep me up every single day."
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Duran patiently awaited the chance to contribute last season by starting the campaign in Triple-A Worcester, only to get the call up to Boston after outfielder Adam Duvall suffered a fractured wrist. From that point, Duran began working to maintain his place with the big league club, showing significant defensive improvement as an everyday outfielder while also utilizing his speed to stretch singles into extra-base knocks routinely -- keeping opposing outfielders, infielders and catchers on their toes every game.
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He's batted .278 with 10 home runs, 41 RBIs and 22 stolen bases while leading the Red Sox in doubles (25) and triples (10).
Duran will represent the Red Sox at Globe Life Field on Tuesday night for the 94th annual star-studded interleague clash.
Featured image via David Butler II/USA TODAY Sports Images
