The Padres optioned Duran to Triple-A El Paso on Friday.
With Freddy Fermin (head) now back from the injured list, the Padres will send Duran back down to the minors to avoid carrying three catchers on their active roster. The 28-year-old backstop has slashed just .146/.222/.305 across 91 plate appearances with the big club this season but would likely return to San Diego if the Friars' catcher depth is tested again later in the year.