Brady's Spin: Here's How the Path Back Works For Red Sox Star Jarren Duran

Jarren Duran didn't just make a mistake. He made a choice. And a very poor one at that. However, there is a path back for him if he's willing to remain committed to it.

Boston Red Sox center fielder Jarren Duran (16) celebrates with teammates after hitting a home run during the fifth inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on Aug 4. | Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora said that Jarren Duran made a mistake when he used a homophobic slur toward a fan on Sunday afternoon. Red Sox CEO Sam Kennedy said the same thing when addressing reporters on Monday.

"There's a lot of work to be done, but I'm here to help him out."

Alex Cora addresses Jarren Duran's use of a homophobic slur directed at a fan on Sunday pic.twitter.com/W3GS2gBIj0

— NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSBoston) August 12, 2024

That's not true. Jarren Duran didn't make a mistake. He made a choice. And a bad one. In using that slur, Duran embarrassed himself, the Red Sox and Major League Baseball. Furthermore, he offended any number of people and undoubtedly caused some hurt and heartache.

It was a terrible choice, and one that will cost Duran dearly. It hurt his wallet, as he was suspended for two games by the Red Sox, and it's hurt his credibility and marketability as well.

With all that said, there is a path back towards redemption for Duran. He just needs to be willing to take that path. He stood in front of his locker on Monday and said the right words, but now he needs to go the extra mile and take the right actions.

Jarren Duran addresses the media after using homophobic slur in Sunday's game. Duran will serve two-game unpaid suspension. pic.twitter.com/HMRZzYsm1e

— NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSBoston) August 12, 2024

If Duran is truly contrite, and if he truly wants to be a better person, as he says, then the work doesn't end with one apology press conference. He needs to take the lead of Kevin Pillar, the former Blue Jays OF who walked this very same path back in 2017.

He needs to make himself part of the LGBTQ+ community by going to meetings, by meeting with leaders in that community, by being visible at events, by listening to people with empathy, by speaking with kids about his poor choices, and by not hiding from his actions.

Duran will return from his suspension on Wednesday as the Red Sox play the Rangers.

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