The suspension comes after Duran directed an anti-gay slur towards a fan during the team's game against the Houston Astros on Sunday. Duran's suspension will take effect starting with Monday's game against the Texas Rangers.

During the sixth inning of Sunday's game at Fenway Park, Duran turned towards a heckling fan and used a derogatory term, saying, "Shut up, you f---ing f----t." The offensive language did not go unnoticed, and in response, Duran issued a statement apologizing for his actions, acknowledging the severity of the word he used and expressing remorse for having offended and disappointed so many people.

MLB's decision to suspend Duran for two games aligns with previous instances of disciplinary actions taken against players for the use of anti-gay slurs. In 2017, Oakland Athletics outfielder Matt Joyce was suspended for two games after directing a similar slur at a fan. That same year, then-Toronto outfielder Kevin Pillar faced a two-game ban for using a similar slur towards Atlanta reliever Jason Motte.

The Red Sox organization has also taken additional steps to address the incident. Not only will Duran serve his suspension, but his salary during the two-game period will be donated to PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays), an organization that supports and advocates for the LGBTQ+ community.

Jarren Duran, 27, has been enjoying a breakout season with the Red Sox. As one of the top 10 players in MLB in wins above replacement, he has made significant contributions to the team's performance. Duran has showcased his skills with a batting average of .291, an on-base percentage of .350, and a slugging percentage of .503. Additionally, he has achieved 14 home runs and 29 stolen bases.

The Red Sox organization expressed its support for Duran's apology and emphasized its commitment to inclusivity. In a statement, the team said, "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."

As the Red Sox grapple with a four-game losing streak and a three-game deficit for the final wild-card spot in the American League, the team now faces the absence of Duran during his suspension. However, the incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for education and awareness surrounding issues of inclusivity in professional sports.

This incident involving Jarren Duran shines a light on the responsibility that athletes have as role models, particularly for their young fans. While Duran has expressed his intent to use this experience as an opportunity for growth and education, the incident prompts further reflection on how actions and language can impact marginalized communities.