close
close

Red Sox’s Jarren Duran suspended for two games for using homophobic slurs

Red Sox’s Jarren Duran suspended for two games for using homophobic slurs

The consequences of Jarren Duran’s homophobic comments continue: The Boston Red Sox outfielder has been suspended for his actions.

On Monday, August 12, the Red Sox announced that 27-year-old Duran would be suspended for two games without pay. This decision was also made in consultation with MLB and requires Duran to participate in a sensitivity training program, according to MLB.com.

Regarding the decision to suspend Duran, Red Sox President and CEO Sam Kennedy said: “We spoke directly with Major League Baseball last night after discussing the issue with Jarren. So they were very involved in the discussion and the outcome of the suspension.”

Jarren Duran on August 11, 2024.

Matthew J. Lee/The Boston Globe via Getty


Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

MLB also stated that Duran’s salary for the missed games, in addition to his two-game suspension, will be donated to Greater Boston PFLAG.

Following his previous apology on Sunday, August 11, Duran spoke directly to the media about his words on Monday afternoon. “I just wanted to say that some fans have reached out to me and told me they are disappointed in me and I wanted to let them know that I am sorry for my behavior and I will work to improve for them,” the player said.

After the loss to the Houston Astros during the game on Sunday, August 11, the 27-year-old Duran used a homophobic slur while dealing with a fan, according to Bleacher Report.

In a statement following the incident, Duran said, “During tonight’s game, I used a truly horrible word in my response to a fan. I feel terrible thinking about how many people I offended and disappointed. I apologize to the entire Red Sox organization, but more importantly to the LGBTQ community.”

He added: “Our young fans should 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.”

Following Duran’s comments, the Red Sox also released a statement detailing the inclusiveness of the Red Sox organization and confirming that team officials “discussed this incident with Jarren immediately following today’s game,” MLB.com reported.

“We strive to be an organization that welcomes all fans to Fenway Park, and we will continue to educate our staff, players, coaches and employees about the importance of inclusivity,” the team said.