Jarren Duran is in the midst of a sensational 2024 campaign. The Red Sox outfielder was named to his first All-Star Game, where he earned MVP honors after a go-ahead home run for the American League. He is a key reason why Boston is battling for a playoff spot as the second half of the season is in full swing.
However, he recently got into the headlines for the wrong reason.
Duran issued an apology on Sunday night after a hot mic picked up a homophobic slur used by the outfielder during an at-bat. It was in the direction of a fan who was taunting Duran during the Red Sox's 10-2 loss to the Astros.
"During tonight’s game, I used a truly horrific word when responding to a fan," Duran said in a statement issued by the Red Sox. "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. I will use this opportunity to educate myself and my teammates and to grow as a person."
Here is more on what Duran said during the exchange.
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What did Jarren Duran say?
In the bottom of the sixth inning of the Red Sox-Astros contest, Duran was facing a 1-2 count. He already struck in his two previous at-bats, and one of the fans was letting him hear it from the stands at Fenway Park.
"Tennis racket! Tennis racket! You need a tennis racket!"
Duran took exception to the heckling, and told the fan to "shut up you f—ing f—."
"The Red Sox addressed this incident with Jarren immediately following today’s game," the Boston club said in a statement. "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."
Duran is batting .291 this season with 14 home runs and is leading the majors with 36 doubles and 13 triples. His 143 hits are first out of all Red Sox players.
In Sunday's loss to the Astros, Duran went 0-3.
Will Jarren Duran be suspended?
MLB has suspended Duran for two games following his actions in Sunday's game against the Astros.
Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has been suspended for two games after he uttered an anti-gay slur at a fan during Sunday’s game. His suspension will begin effective immediately and he’ll miss tonight’s game on ESPN against the Texas Rangers.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) August 12, 2024
Prior to MLB's decision to suspend Duran, the Boston Globe's Pete Abraham reported Monday that MLB was "considering its options" in regards to the incident involving Duran.
My understanding is MLB is considering its options regarding the incident with Jarren Duran and a decision will be reached later today or no later than tomorrow.
— Pete Abraham (@PeteAbe) August 12, 2024
In previous instances, the league has worked with teams and approved discipline levied by a club.
The suspension will begin immediately as Duran will miss Monday night's game against the Rangers.
Duran spoke with the media on Monday following the news of the suspension. The outfielder was remorseful for his actions and said he needed to be better going forward.
Jarren Duran addresses the media after using homophobic slur in yesterday's game vs. Rangers. Duran will serve two-game unpaid suspension. pic.twitter.com/JmhfjJwnBZ
— NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSBoston) August 12, 2024
"I’ve had some fans reach out to me and tell me that they are disappointed in me," Duran said. "I just wanted to let them know that I’m sorry for my actions."
