Entering the Red Sox’ game against the Cincinnati Reds on Saturday, Jarren Duran had played in all 76 of Boston’s contests this season.
Manager Alex Cora figured he would give the outfielder his first day off of the year. Considering how hard Duran has played in 2024 and his improved statistics compared to years past, it makes sense that Cora would want to let his leadoff hitter rest as the midway point of MLB’s season approaches.
Duran refused to accept what he deemed to be an offer, not an order.
“Last night, I called him into the office and said, ‘Hey, you got an off day tomorrow,’” Cora recounted to reporters on Saturday.