Jarren Duran, Boston Red Sox apologize for his homophobic slur aimed at heckling fan

BOSTON – Jarren Duran and the Boston Red Sox have apologized for a homophobic slur Duran aimed at a heckling fan at Fenway Park in a loss to the Houston Astros.

What did Jarren Duran say?

The incident was captured on a live microphone during New England Sports Network’s broadcast of the game Sunday afternoon.

Duran was batting in the sixth inning and was 0 for 2 with two strikeouts in the game at that moment. That’s when a fan in the stands starting heckling him, yelling, “Tennis racket! Tennis racket! You need a tennis racket!”

Duran turned toward the fan and hollered “Shut up, you…” which was followed by a curse word and the slur. Duran ended up walking. Hours later, apologies from Duran and the Red Sox were posted on the team’s website.

Jarren Duran apology

“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,” Duran said in a statement.

Boston Red Sox statement

“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,” the team said in a statement.

It’s not clear yet if Duran will be punished by the team or Major League Baseball.

Duran has had a breakout season with the Red Sox this year, hitting .291 with 14 home runs and 58 RBIs. He was the Most Valuable Player in the All-Star Game back in July.

Before Sunday’s game, Duran was presented with the Heart and Hustle Award, given to one player on each team who “demonstrates a passion for the game and best embodies its values, spirit, and traditions.”