Boston Red Sox Outfielder Jarren Duran Suspended for Anti-Gay Slur
Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has been suspended for two games by Major League Baseball after using an anti-gay slur during the team’s loss to the Houston Astros on Sunday. The incident occurred in the sixth inning at Fenway Park, where Duran directed the slur at a heckling fan.
Duran, 27, immediately apologized after the game and further expressed regret in a statement, acknowledging the harm caused by his words. “I feel awful knowing how many people I offended and disappointed,” Duran said. “I will use this opportunity to educate myself and my teammates and grow as a person.”
His suspension began with Monday’s game against the Texas Rangers. The Red Sox announced that Duran’s forfeited salary, amounting to $8,172, would be donated to PFLAG, an advocacy group supporting the LGBTQ community.
Red Sox management, including team president Sam Kennedy and Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow, spoke out about the incident, calling it a “disappointing” day. “While we have made strides, we haven’t done nearly enough,” Breslow remarked, noting the ongoing work needed to foster inclusivity in the sport.
Teammates and coaches expressed support for Duran’s growth from the situation. Manager Alex Cora said, “He made a big mistake… It’s what I can do as a person to support him and help him to be better.”
Duran’s suspension mirrors previous MLB actions, including a similar two-game ban for Oakland’s Matt Joyce in 2017 and Toronto’s Kevin Pillar in the same year.
Duran emphasized that there was no intent behind the slur, citing the heat of the moment, but vowed to learn from the experience. The Red Sox and MLB continue to work toward creating an inclusive environment, ensuring that Fenway Park remains welcoming for all fans.
