One of Major League Baseball’s biggest LGBTQ+ allies has stepped forward to defend his Red Sox teammate, who was heard using a homophobic slur during a home game.
Raised Eyebrows For Baseball Fans
Liam Hendriks, a closing pitcher for the Boston Red Sox, has been one of the most vocal allies and supporters of the LGBTQ+ community since he joined the Major League. Now, some LGBTQ+ MLB fans may be wondering how far that support extends.
Homophobic Incident During Game
Hendriks’ teammate and star Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran became embroiled in controversy after using a homophobic slur during a game in Fenway Park, Boston.
Responding to a Heckler
After being heckled by a spectator during the game, Duran could be heard directing an anti-gay slur at the heckler over a hot mic.
Apologies and Responses
While both Duran and the Red Sox team have issued formal apologies for the incident, Hendriks’ response may have polarized fans the most.
A “Slip of the Tongue”
The Australian pitcher defended his teammate in an interview with the Boston Globe, claiming that he knew his teammate was not anti-LGBTQ and that the situation was a “slip of the tongue” that had “nothing to do with the community.”
Working on it
He urged the LGBTQ community to approach Duran’s outburst with the understanding that he had learned from the experience and was working to be better.
Duran Is “Nothing But Supportive”
“This is what happens in anger,” he told the Globe. “But I know Jarren. I’ve had conversations with him plenty of times about the LGBT community and he’s been nothing but supportive.”
“I Know Where His Heart’s At”
“I know the word that came out was derogatory but it had nothing to do with that community,” Hendriks continued. “I know where his heart’s at and that’s something that I value more than anything. I hope that the community recognizes the work that he’s putting in.”
Responding Makes Sense
While some may be unhappy with Hendrik’s response, it makes sense that he would come out in support of his teammate. With a long track record of LGBTQ allyship, his word on the matter may hold more weight for Duran’s reputation than other teammates.
An LGBTQ+ Advocate
During his time playing for the Chicago White Sox, Hendriks helped to raise money for LGBTQ initiatives and community groups, and his support has been highly publicized.
Calling For Annual Pride Month
During negotiations to sign with the White Sox in 2021, Hendrik asked if the team held an annual “Pride Night” during Pride Month in June, saying that the answer would influence his decision to sign a contract with any MLB team.
Holding Up Pride Flags
He has also held Pride flags at home stadiums during Pride month and has actively encouraged other players and athletes to celebrate Pride to help teammates and fans feel more comfortable about coming out.
Part of “Being a Decent Human Being”
In an interview with the Athletic in 2022, he said that LGBTQ allyship is “something that I’ve believed in,” and just a part of “being a decent human being.”
Conflict Over Hendriks’ Response
While some may see Hendriks’ support as a sign that Duran’s outburst was a genuine mistake with no bigoted intentions behind it, others may see it as a sign that Hendriks is willing to prioritize his team’s public image over the feelings of the LGBTQ+ community.
An Inclusive Team
In the same Globe interview, Hendriks maintained that the Red Sox is a more inclusive and welcoming team than others might be, saying: “If there were a gay player on this team, he’d be embraced probably better than other people.”
Duran Apologizes
Duran also apologized at a news conference on Monday, claiming that he meant “no intent behind the word that was used. It was just the heat of the moment and just happened to be said. It’s on me for that word coming out.”
Advocates Speak Out
However, other LGBTQ+ advocates have maintained that Duran’s actions were harmful regardless of how he claims to feel about gay people. Kasey Suffredini, the chief officer of prevention at The Trevor Project, a non-profit LGBTQ support service, shared their views with USA Today.
It’s “Hard Enough” For LGBTQ+ Individuals
“Growing up is hard enough as it is,” Suffredini said. “It’s important for adults – especially those with large platforms, and those whom young people look up to – to understand how anti-LGBTQ+ words and actions can impact LGBTQ+ young people as they figure out how to live the lives they are born to lead.”
Suspended For Two Games
Duran was suspended for two games following the incident after a consultation between the Red Sox and MLB.
Another Incident
This is not the first time the Red Sox has come under fire for anti-LGBTQ+ behavior from its players. In 2023, journeyman pitcher Matt Dermody was condemned for a string of homophobic posts he made on social media in 2021.
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