Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran was caught on a hot microphone yelling an anti-gay slur at a heckler during the team's 10-2 loss to the Houston Astros on Sunday.
Duran made the comment as he walked to the plate in the sixth inning. A fan yelled at him that he needed a tennis racket. The player yelled, “Shut up,” followed by the insult.
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Jarren Duran, #16 of the Boston Red Sox, reacts with a 2024 Boston Marathon medal before a game against the Houston Astros on August 10, 2024 at Fenway Park in Boston. (Maddie Malhotra/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images)
He apologized in a statement after the match.
“During tonight's game, I used a truly horrible word when responding to a fan,” Duran said. “I feel terrible 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 failed to live up to that responsibility.”
Boston Red Sox's Jarren Duran drops his bat next to Houston Astros catcher Yainer Diaz after being walked during the sixth inning of a baseball game Sunday, Aug. 11, 2024, in Boston. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)
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The Red Sox also issued a statement regarding Duran's comments.
“The Red Sox addressed this incident with Jarren immediately following today's game. We echo Jarren's apology to our fans, especially the LGBTQ community,” the team added. “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 inclusion.”
Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora, number 13, reacts with Boston Red Sox manager Jarren Duran, number 16, while receiving the Heart & Hustle Award before a game against the Houston Astros on August 11, 2024 at Fenway Park in Boston. (Maddie Malhotra/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images)
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The All-Star leads the majors with 36 doubles and 13 triples. He is batting .291 with 14 homers.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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