Red Sox’s Jarren Duran issued an apology for use of a homophobic slur towards a fan in the crowd

Jarren Duran and the Boston Red Sox issued statements on Sunday with apologies after the outfielder audibly directed a homophobic slur towards a heckling fan.

During Sunday’s game between the Red Sox and the Houston Astros, NESN mics picked up Duran yelling a homophobic slur back at a fan who was heckling him in the stands during the bottom of the sixth inning. The Red Sox would go on to lose the game 10-2 to the Astros.

After the game, both Duran and the Red Sox released statements apologizing for the incident, with the team stating they have addressed the matter with the outfielder immediately after the game.

“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. 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 addressed this incident with Jarren immediately following today’s game. 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.”

On Monday, Duran was officially suspended two games by the Red Sox for using the slur.

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