BOSTON — The struggles with mental health that athletes face are often hidden, but Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran reveals his in an upcoming documentary series. Before his successful 2024 All-Star season, Duran endured severe depression, driven by the pressures of professional baseball, which almost led him to take his own life.
In “The Clubhouse: A Year With the Red Sox,” a Netflix series set for release on Tuesday, Duran, 28, opens up in the fourth episode about his emotional turmoil. Drafted in the seventh round in 2018, Duran quickly rose to become a top MLB prospect, ultimately making his major league debut in 2021. However, the transition to the majors was fraught with challenges, especially his adaptation from infield to outfield positions.
Reflecting on his experience, Duran confessed that the sports world’s fickle nature took a toll on him. The relentless demands and critical scrutiny from fans and media in Boston’s intense sports environment only exacerbated his struggles. “They love you one day, and then the next day they have to grind on you a little bit,” he explained.
Feeling like “zoo animals” under constant gaze, Duran pointed out how some fans crossed the line by mocking his mental health. Those comments hit hard, he admitted, saying, “It just kind of triggered me.” The isolation he felt as a result was profound. The negative feedback — both internal and external — overshadowed the positives, pushing him into a dark place.
Recounting his lowest moments, Duran said, “I remember when I first started struggling I was like, just send me back down (to the minor leagues).” The pressure to succeed weighed heavily on him. “I couldn’t deal with telling myself how much I sucked every day,” he shared.
In a poignant moment, when asked if ‘here’ meant the Red Sox or life in general, Duran acknowledged it was both. Sam Kennedy, Red Sox President and CEO, praised Duran for his bravery in sharing his journey, emphasizing the significance of addressing mental health openly. “Jarren’s decision to share his story is an act of courage that reaches far beyond baseball,” Kennedy said, underscoring the importance of support and understanding.
Manager Alex Cora spoke about being there for Duran long before the series was filmed. Cora mentioned that he knew of Duran’s struggles and has been a supportive figure, always open for heartfelt conversations. Cora acknowledged the potential positive impact of Duran’s openness, suggesting that it could save lives.
Throughout his journey, Duran has shown resilience by confronting these mental health challenges publicly, providing hope and encouragement to others who might endure similar struggles. His story highlights the crucial need for empathy and support in athletic communities and beyond.
Duran’s candidness serves as a reminder that mental health issues do not discriminate, not even among elite athletes. By sharing his experience, he has likely inspired many to feel less isolated and seek the help they need.