Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran issued an apology on Sunday for using an anti-gay slur against a fan during a game against the Houston Astros.
The incident was captured by the NESN broadcast during Houston’s 10-2 victory in Boston. A fan heckled Duran, suggesting he needed a tennis racket to hit the ball as Duran struggled at the plate. In response, Duran directed the slur at the fan.
Following the game, Duran released a statement via a joint statement issued by the Red Sox, acknowledging his behavior and expressing remorse.
“During tonight’s game, I used a truly horrific word when responding to a fan,” Duran’s statement reads. “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 also issued a statement addressing the incident and reaffirming their commitment to inclusivity.
“The Red Sox addressed this incident with Jarren immediately following today’s game,” the team statement reads. “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 on inclusivity.”
Duran has yet to publicly address the incident, and Major League Baseball had not made a public statement as of Sunday evening.
Despite this incident, Duran, a 27-year-old outfielder, has been having a successful season with the Red Sox, earning his first All-Star selection in July and winning the All-Star Game MVP title.