The Red Sox announced Monday afternoon that they have suspended outfielder Jarren Duran for two games without pay after he was caught using a homophobic slur while responding to a heckler during Sunday night's game against the Astros.
Additionally, the team announced that Duran’s salary from the two-game suspension will be donated to PFLAG (Federation of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays), the United States’ largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people and those who love them.
Duran apologized for what he said after the game and was also scheduled to meet with the media Monday afternoon.
"During tonight’s game, I used a truly horrific word when responding to a fan," Duran said in the statement. "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 put out a statement from the club:
"The Red Sox addressed this incident with Jarren immediately following today’s game. 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 of inclusivity."
Duran's suspension will begin Monday night. He had played all 116 games this season prior to this suspension.