What did Jarren Duran say? Red Sox OF apologizes for using homophobic slur toward fan

Jarren Duran is in the midst of a sensational 2024 campaign. The Red Sox outfielder was named to his first All-Star Game, where he earned MVP honors after a go-ahead home run for the American League. He is a key reason why Boston is battling for a playoff spot as the second half of the season is in full swing.

However, he recently got into the headlines for the wrong reason.

Duran issued an apology on Sunday night after a hot mic picked up a homophobic slur used by the outfielder during an at-bat. It was in the direction of a fan who was taunting Duran during the Red Sox's 10-2 loss to the Astros.

"During tonight’s game, I used a truly horrific word when responding to a fan," Duran said in a statement issued by the Red Sox . "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."

Here is more on what Duran said during the exchange.

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What did Jarren Duran say?

In the bottom of the sixth inning of the Red Sox-Astros contest, Duran was facing a 1-2 count. He already struck in his two previous at-bats, and one of the fans was letting him hear it from the stands at Fenway Park.

"Tennis racket! Tennis racket! You need a tennis racket!"

Duran took exception to the heckling, and told the fan to "shut up you f—ing f—."

"The Red Sox addressed this incident with Jarren immediately following today’s game," the Boston club said 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."

Duran is batting .291 this season with 14 home runs and is leading the majors with 36 doubles and 13 triples. His 143 hits are first out of all Red Sox players.

In Sunday's loss to the Astros, Duran went 0-3.