Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran uses homophobic slur against fan

During the Red Sox’s game today versus the Houston Astros, Boston OF Jarren Duran was heard using a slur in response to a fan in the crowd.

As Duran steps up to the plate, a fan in the Fenway crowd is heard yelling that he needs to be hitting with a tennis racket. In response, Duran tells him to shut up while also using an insensitive, homophobic slur towards him.

(WARNING: Video includes use of said slur by Duran)

NESN mics picked up Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran calling a heckling fan a "f*cking f*****" during Sunday's game

(Warning, slur included in clip below) pic.twitter.com/R6UYjJqnCJ

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) August 12, 2024

Since then, Duran has addressed it by apologizing to the franchise and the fans, specifically those that identify as LGBTQ.

“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,” wrote Duran. “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 have also issued their thoughts about the matter in their own release.

“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,” they wrote. “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 in his fourth season with the Red Sox in the MLB. The team drafted him in the seventh round of the 2018 MLB Draft out of California State University.

Duran is currently amidst the best year of his professional career so far. His statistics this season have earned him a selection as an MLB All Star where he won MVP. He already has career-highs in doubles, triples, and at-bats with him leading the Red Sox in several statistics. That’s not to mention his fielding numbers defensively.

This was not a good look whatsoever for the near 28-year-old in what’s currently among the best baseball of his life. That leaves it up to him to make up for it how he can from here as a person.