The Boston Red Sox have suspended All-Star outfielder Jarren Duran for two games after he made homophobic remarks to fans during Sunday’s game against the Astros.
The NESN broadcast showed Duran calling heckling fans “fuckers” during the bottom of the sixth inning at Fenway Park.
The team announced that the 27-year-old’s salary from the two games will be donated to PFLAG (Pride of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays).
“During tonight’s game, I used some truly harsh language in response to a fan,” Duran said in a statement released by the team on Sunday. “It pains me to realize how many people I have offended and disappointed. I apologize to the entire Red Sox organization and more importantly the entire LGBTQ community. Our young fans should be able to look up to me as a role model and tonight I fell completely short of that responsibility. I will use this opportunity to educate myself and my teammates and grow as people.”
A fan jeered during the match, saying Duran needed a “tennis racket” to hit the ball when the count was 1-2 and he was down 0-2.
The incident occurred in the bottom of the sixth inning when the Red Sox were trailing the Astros, 10-0.
“The Red Sox discussed the incident with Jalen immediately after today’s game,” the team said Sunday in a statement accompanying Duran’s apology. “We echo Jalen’s apology to our fans, particularly the LGBTQ community. We strive to be a welcoming organization for all fans at Fenway Park and will continue to educate our employees, players, coaches and staff on the importance of being inclusive.”
Duran will miss the next two games against the Rangers due to his suspension, starting with Monday’s game at Fenway Park.
Duran is batting .291 with 14 home runs and an OPS of .853 this season.
The Red Sox are 61-55 and three games behind the Royals in the race for the final American League wild card spot.
The Red Sox also need to overtake the Mariners, who hold a half-game lead, to reach the postseason.
