Why was Boston Red Sox star Jarren Duran banned for two games by MLB?

The Boston Red Sox and their outfielder will be reflecting this week after the latter was found guilty of some rather unsavory behavior. While it’s clear that this is not a unique case, that fact in no way diminishes the idea that such behavior is simply not acceptable.

Jarren Duran receives 2-game ban from MLB

According to an official announcement from MLB on Monday, Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has been suspended for two games without pay after calling a fan an anti-LGBTQ slur. It is understood that the 27-year-old directed his comments toward a fan who was engaged in heckling during the Red Sox’s disheartening 10-2 loss to the Houston Astros on Sunday at Fenway Park.

As Per MLB, Duran’s game checks will be donated to PFLAG - a longstanding American organization that is “dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them.” A native of Corona, California, Duran will serve out his suspension on Monday and Tuesday when his team is set to play the first two games of a three-game series against the Texas Rangers.

This is of course Duran’s fourth year in Boston which is to say we’re talking about an experienced player and one who is All-Star such that he’s no stranger to what is expected of him. At present Duran leads the AL in doubles and the league itself in triples. To his credit, he did issue an apology:

“During tonight’s game, I used a truly horrific word when responding to a fan,” Duran said postgame. “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.”