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Hot mic slur results in ban for Red Sox outfielder

August 13, 2024 | | Print Article

Jarren Duran, outfielder for the Boston Red Sox, was slapped with a ban after being caught on a hot mic using a slur.

As the Sox lost their Sunday game to the Houston Astros, Duran reportedly told a heckler to “Shut up you f**king f***ot.” Reaction was swift for the 27-year-old, who was accused of homophobia following the outburst.

Duran apologized for the incident through the Red Sox, where he addressed the LGBT community directly.

“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,” he said.

The team echoed his sentiments in their own statement.

“We echo Jarren’s apology to our fans, especially to the LGBTQ community,” they said. “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.”

Darren was also banned for the next two games without pay. Instead, the money he would have made for those games is being donated to PFLAG (Federation of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays).

The heckling fan was reportedly yelling, “Tennis racket! Tennis racket! You need a tennis racket!” from behind home plate.

Fans reacted to the incident and punishment on X:

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