In an effort to support the LGBTQ+ community, Chicago White Sox pitcher Liam Hendriks has expressed his unwavering alliance with the baseball fraternity. Recently, the Red Sox relief pitcher, Jarren Duran, faced criticism for shouting a homophobic slur at a heckling fan during a game on Sunday. However, Hendriks has publicly defended Duran, emphasizing that the outburst was not motivated by any form of hatred towards the LGBTQ+ community.

Hendriks, who is known for his five-time nomination for the Roberto Clemente Award for community service, believes that Duran will emerge as a better person from this experience. He expressed his confidence that the outfielder will be recognized for the efforts he is making to ensure understanding and respect for the LGBTQ+ community.

As a veteran player with over 13 years of experience, Hendriks has been an advocate for inclusivity and diversity within the sport. He has previously stated that he would not sign with teams that do not have a Pride Night, demonstrating his commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ initiatives. During his time with the Chicago White Sox, Hendriks actively worked with community groups and helped raise funds to support various LGBTQ+ projects.

Hendriks, who has overcome Stage 4 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, has also made it a point to meet with cancer patients before games, both at home and away, throughout the season. His words carry significant weight, as he frequently speaks out on issues beyond the game.

In addressing the incident involving Duran, Hendriks emphasized that this incident does not define the outfielder as a person. He acknowledged that while the word used was derogatory, it was not intended to target the LGBTQ+ community or demean anyone within that community. Hendriks believes that this was simply a moment of frustration and that the use of such language needs to be eliminated altogether.

Hendriks, who began his professional baseball journey in 2007 with the Twins, believes that the sport has evolved and become more inclusive during his time in the game. He expressed confidence that if there were a gay player on the team, they would be embraced and welcomed by the organization and other teams he has played for.

As part of the agreement between the Red Sox and Major League Baseball, Duran is expected to undergo additional sensitivity training in addition to the two-game suspension imposed by the team. All players and coaches are required to complete such training during spring training; however, Hendriks acknowledged that some players may not fully engage due to the early morning timing before workouts or games. He commended MLB for raising awareness and making efforts to improve inclusivity within the sport.

Hendriks, who has openly expressed that he has gay friends, emphasized that inclusivity and respect for all individuals, regardless of their race, creed, religion, gender, or orientation, are paramount to him. He believes that everyone deserves equal opportunities and that it should not be challenging to create an inclusive environment within the sport.