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BOSTON — Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran apologized for directing a homophobic slur at a heckling fan during Sunday’s 10-2 loss to the Houston Astros.
The exchange caught on a live mic during the broadcast of the game occurred when Duran — who was 0 for 2 with two strikeouts at that point in the game — was at the plate in the sixth inning.
A fan at Fenway Park can be heard shouting “Tennis racket! Tennis racket! You need a tennis racket!”
Duran turned his head toward the fan and replied: “Shut up,” followed by a curse word and the slur. The at-bat ended with Duran being walked.
“During tonight’s game, I used a truly horrific word when responding to a fan,” Duran said in a statement released by the team. “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. Our young fans are supposed to be able to look up to me as a role model, but tonight I fell far short of that responsibility.”
He finished by saying he would use the episode to educate himself and grow as a person.
The team in a statement said it has spoken with Duran about the incident.
“The Red Sox addressed this incident with Jarren immediately following today’s game. We echo Jarren’s apology to our fans, especially to the LGBTQ community,” the team said. “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 of inclusivity.”
Duran is one of Boston’s top hitters this season with a .291 average, 14 home runs and 58 RBIs.
The exchange with the fan came after Duran was honoured during a pregame ceremony as the team’s recipient of the Heart and Hustle Award, which recognizes one player per team who “demonstrates a passion for the game and best embodies its values, spirit, and traditions.”
Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran issued a public apology after using a homophobic slur during a game. The incident occurred during a heated moment on the field, and Duran’s words were caught on camera, sparking backlash from fans and the LGBTQ+ community.
In his apology, Duran expressed regret for his actions and acknowledged the harm that his words may have caused. He stated, “I am deeply sorry for using language that is hurtful and offensive. I understand the impact that my words can have, and I take full responsibility for my actions.”
Duran’s apology comes at a time when professional sports leagues are increasingly focused on promoting inclusivity and diversity. Major League Baseball has a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination and hate speech, and players are expected to conduct themselves with respect and professionalism both on and off the field.
The Red Sox organization also released a statement condemning Duran’s use of the slur and emphasizing their commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans and players. They stated, “We do not condone or tolerate any form of discrimination or hate speech, and we will work with Jarren to ensure that he understands the impact of his words and takes steps to educate himself on the importance of inclusivity.”
Duran’s apology is a reminder that even in the heat of competition, it is important to choose our words carefully and treat others with respect. As a public figure, Duran has a platform to influence others, and his actions both on and off the field can have a significant impact.
Moving forward, it is crucial for athletes like Duran to educate themselves on issues of diversity and inclusion, and to use their platform to promote positive change. By taking responsibility for his actions and committing to do better, Duran can set an example for others in the sports world and beyond.