Boston Red Sox star outfielder Jarren Duran is in the midst of his best season to date in the MLB. Unfortunately, that doesn’t exactly mean that all is well for him personally, as he took to social media on Wednesday to post a cryptic message seemingly about some mental health struggles he is having.
Duran posted an Instagram story of a video that had a caption that suggests that he may not be in the best head space at the moment.
“Falling back into that place I fought so hard to get out of..”
Need Red Sox fan to give Jarren Duran a standing ovation when he’s back in Fenway pic.twitter.com/VEjidVrmiv
— rare (@veryrare_ns) August 17, 2023
This social media activity got back to Red Sox manager Alex Cora, who addressed the situation on Thursday, stating that they are aware of it and plan to keep the situation private.
“We are aware of it and we talked to the player and we’ll keep it private.”
Jarren Duran posted some things on his Instagram story yesterday indicating he is having mental health issues lately. He was candid about this in an article last year. "We are aware of it and we talked to the player and we’ll keep it private.” –Alex Cora.
— Ian Browne (@IanMBrowne) August 17, 2023
Cora further added that he and the rest of the organization plan on having his back during this time.
“Even now with the struggles, he’s open to go to guys and talk to them understanding that they’re teammates,” Cora said via Mass Live. “That’s what we are. Coaches, the support system we have here, the players, we’re all teammates and we want the best for him.”
It’s obviously unclear what type of struggles Duran is internally going through, but fans offered their support on social media and are wishing him the best.
I’m happy to see Jarren Duran is getting the support he needs right now.
Not too many athletes speak on the record like he did last season about his mental health struggles. Such a tough thing to do in general, even tougher with the spotlight constantly on you.
Awesome to see… pic.twitter.com/9ehHCmZdGf
— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) August 17, 2023
https://twitter.com/Pat_SullivanBB/status/1691905619417067594
https://twitter.com/PKellyMLB/status/1692239028563624295
Jarren Duran is a strong dude! Admits he struggles! He has made SO much progress, I’m proud of him for being open, and his team for keeping him up!
Us fans let’s do the same! ♥️
— Angelica St. Onge (@angelica_st) August 17, 2023
Red Sox nation loves Jarren Duran and I hope he gets better. 🙏
— DirtyWaterDrinker (@AThetanman) August 16, 2023
Hope Jarren Duran is able to talk to some people and get any help he needs. Takes courage as a man, being able to admit you’re going through some things. You’re a real one! Get well, Jarren!
— tomás (@tm98Sox) August 17, 2023
It’s truly unfortunate to hear that Duran is going through this, especially since he has been a very valuable contributor for the team this season. Duran is currently hitting for a .297 batting average to go along with eight home runs in 320 at-bats this year.
Hopefully, he gets the help he needs off the field and continues to be a productive player for the Red Sox on the field.
If you or someone you know is dealing with mental health struggles, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health National Helpline, or use their web or text chat.
