Boston Red Sox star outfielder Jarren Duran is certainly in some hot water following Sunday night’s loss to the Houston Astros inside Fenway Park.
It was a frustrating evening for the team as a whole, with Boston losing by the score of 10-2 in front of its home fans.
But this is not anywhere near close to the story from Fenway. During the game, Duran got into it with a heckling fan.
The All-Star was caught on video using a homophobic slur as he responded to said fan. We’re not going to play it here. Instead, find the link of the exchange here.
Banter is one thing. Exchanging words with a fan is another thing. Using this type of language within the sports world just is not acceptable. It’s not accepted in society today. It is certainly a bad look for both Duran and the Red Sox.
Jarren Duran Apologizes, Boston Red Sox Release Statement After Sunday’s Incident
Duran knew this would be the story following the game. He did as much damage control as possible in releasing a statement.
“During tonight’s game, I used a truly horrific word when responding to a fan,” Jarren Duran wrote. “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.”
It might read as a company line statement after the fact. But ignorance plays a role when individuals make homophobic remarks like that. By indicating that he’s going to educate himself, Duran is at least admitting that.
As for the Red Sox, their statement was pretty company line, too. But they did not hold back when showing support for the LGMTQI community.
“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 Red Sox wrote in their 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.”
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