Red Sox’s Jarren Duran suspended for using homophobic slur
- The exchange occurred in the bottom of the sixth inning
- Duran was told he needed a tennis racket by a fan
- In protest, he responded with the homophobic slur
Duran made the remark during Sunday’s loss to Houston
(NewsNation) — Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has been suspended two games for using a homophobic slur during the team’s 10-2 loss to Houston on Sunday.
Duran apologized on Sunday night for calling a heckler in the stands a “f—— fa—-.” It came in response to the fan telling Duran “you need a tennis racket.”
The exchange at home plate was caught by New England Sports Network microphones and resultantly picked up on social media.
“During tonight’s game, I used a truly horrific word when responding to a fan,” Duran said in the statement to The Athletic.
“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.”
The Red Sox issued a separate statement, stating they had addressed the issue with Duran postgame.
“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.”
