MLB star Jarren Duran has issued an apology after he used a homophobic slur towards a fan during the sixth inning of the Boston Red Sox vs Houston Astros game.
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USA Today reports that a field mic picked up the entire exchange between Duran and the fan. It was heard on the NESN broadcast of the game. The Red Sox outfielder can be heard yelling the two-word slur as the fan kept making remarks back at him.
In a statement, Jarren Duran apologized for his behavior. “I used a truly horrific word when responding to a fan,” he explained. “I feel awful knowing how many people I offended and disappointed.”
Duran apologized not only to the entire Red Sox organization but also to the 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 addressed this incident with Jarren immediately following today’s game,” the Red Sox also shared 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.”
The heated exchange came just after Jarren Duran earned All-Star Game MVP honors. He is reportedly leading the majors with 36 doubles and 13 triples. He’s hitting .291 with 14 home runs.
Will Jarren Duran Face Discipline Following Hot Mic Homophobic Slur Exchange
Many are speculating that the outfielder may face discipline from either the team or the MLB organization.
In 2017, Matt Joyce was suspended by the MLB for two games after making a similar remark towards a fan. Kevin Pillar was also suspended for two games without pay for directing a homophobic slur toward an opposing pitcher. Josh Donaldson was suspended for one game in 2022 for calling White House shortstop Tim Anderson “Jackie.”
It didn’t take long for fans and critics alike to speak out about Duran’s actions. Jarren Duran could have called that guy “stupid motherf—er” and I would have giggled like a fairy but instead he decided to use one of the most hateful words I can think of. I’m so disappointed,” one critic said.
Another critic shared, “I don’t think that Jarren Duran is a malicious homophobe, but I do think he is a massive f—ing idiot. That’s completely inexcusable. It’s the year 2024 He’s got to be better plain And simple. He’s let a lot of people down tonight.”
However, some people are siding with him. “I don’t believe Jarren Duran needed to apologize for what he said,” a fan pointed out. A fellow fan added, “Jarren Duran is a HERO.”