Jarren Duran seems to make his mark wherever he's playing.
For the past few years, it was throughout the Red Sox' minor league system. Then came a stint in the Puerto Rican Winter League. A few months ago the Red Sox got a taste in Grapefruit League action. Lately, it's been with the Triple-A Worcester Red Sox.
Now, it's Team USA. And it didn't take long.
According to those witnessing the Team USA training camp, where the club is getting ready for the Olympic qualifying round, Duran has already separated himself.
In Team USA's three exhibition games this week Duran -- who is one of 13 prospects on the club -- was the only player to hit a home run. He is setting himself up to become the team's starting center fielder when the real games kick off next week.
"Looking at video ever since he was selected for our club, you just see the talent jump off the screen," Team USA manager Mike Scioscia was quoted as saying in a Baseball America report. "Seeing him in person, his first step is incredible everywhere, whether he's trying to steal a base or he's in center field. He's a five-tool player. When you call a guy a five-tool player you're saying that he's special. He's in an elite group. I think that Jarren has that skill-set that can make him an impact player very quickly in the major leagues.
Longtime major league third baseman Todd Frazier, who is also playing for Team USA, concurs with Scioscia's analysis.
"This kid Duran from the Red Sox has opened my eyes," Frazier said. "I talk about work ethic with these kids. I mean, head and shoulders way above where I was at that age."
Added Team USA general manager Eric Campbell, "He makes you stop and watch."
Duran left Worcester hitting .278 with a .991 OPS and seven homers in 18 games.