Boston Red Sox Outfielder Jarren Duran Apologizes for Using Anti-Gay Slur at Fan
Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has apologized for using an anti-gay slur at a fan in the stands during a game against the Houston Astros on Sunday. The incident was recorded by NESN, the Red Sox’s broadcast partner, and has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation.
According to reports, Duran was heckled by a fan in the stands, who repeatedly declared that he needs a tennis racket to hit the ball. Duran, who was 0-for-2 at the plate at the time and the Red Sox trailed 10-0, responded by directing the slur at the fan.
After the game, Duran issued an apology via a joint statement from the Red Sox. “During tonight’s game, I used a truly horrific word when responding to a fan,” Duran’s statement reads. “I feel awful knowing how many people I offended and disappointed. I apologize to the entire Red Sox organization, but more importantly to the entire LGBTQ community.”
Duran also acknowledged that he fell short of his responsibility as a role model and vowed to use the incident as an opportunity to educate himself and his teammates on the importance of inclusivity.
The Red Sox issued a statement saying that they addressed the incident with Duran alongside their own apology. “The Red Sox addressed this incident with Jarren immediately following today’s game,” the team statement reads. “We echo Jarren’s apology to our fans, especially to the LGBTQ community. We strive to be an organization that welcomes all fans to Fenway Park, and we will continue to educate our employees, players, coaches and staff on the importance on inclusivity.”
Duran has been suspended by the league for two games, and it remains to be seen whether he will face further disciplinary action. The incident has sparked a wider conversation about the importance of inclusivity and respect in sports, and the need for athletes to be held accountable for their actions.
Duran, 27, is a fourth-year MLB veteran with the Red Sox. He’s in the midst of a breakout season and made his first All-Star team in July. He earned All-Star Game MVP honors after hitting a go-ahead home run in the AL’s 5-3 victory over the NL.