Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has apologized for using a homophobic slur towards a fan who was heckling him during the team’s 10-2 loss to the Houston Astros on Sunday.
The incident was picked up by a live microphone during the broadcast of the game. It happened when Duran, who was 0 for 2 with two strikeouts at that point, was batting in the sixth inning.
A fan at Fenway Park was heard shouting, “Tennis racket! Tennis racket! You need a tennis racket!” Duran turned toward the fan and responded with, “Shut up,” followed by a curse word and the slur. Duran’s at-bat ended with him being walked.
In a statement released by the team, Duran said, “During tonight’s game, I used a truly horrific word when responding to a fan. 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.”
Duran added that he plans to use the experience to educate himself and grow as a person.
The Red Sox also addressed the incident in their statement, saying, “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. 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.”
This season, Duran has been one of Boston’s top hitters, with a .291 average, 14 home runs, and 58 RBIs.
The exchange with the fan came after Duran had been honored in a pregame ceremony as the team’s recipient of the Heart and Hustle Award, which is given to one player per team who “demonstrates a passion for the game and best embodies its values, spirit, and traditions.”
