Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has apologized after using an anti-gay slur during Sunday’s 10-2 defeat to the Houston Astros.
During the sixth inning of the game, while Duran was struggling at bat, a fan behind home plate yelled, “Tennis racket! Tennis racket! You need a tennis racket!” Duran responded with an offensive remark that was captured on the broadcast: “Shut up you f—ing f—-t.”
In a statement released by the Red Sox, Duran expressed deep regret for his actions. “I used a truly horrific word when responding to a fan,” Duran said. “I feel awful knowing how many people I offended and disappointed. I apologize to the entire Red Sox organization, and more importantly, to the LGBTQ community. Our young fans are supposed to look up to me as a role model, but 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 addressed the incident with Duran immediately after the game. “We echo Jarren’s apology to our fans, especially to the LGBTQ community,” the team said in a statement. “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.”
The incident occurred shortly after Duran was honored in a pregame ceremony as the recipient of the Heart and Hustle Award, given to a player who exemplifies passion and embodies the game’s values.
Duran, who was named All-Star Game MVP last month, is batting .291 this season and leads Boston with 143 hits. He went 0-for-3 in Sunday’s game.
