BOSTON — Every game, Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran marks his right wrist with the phrase “Still alive” before stepping onto the field. The significance of this personal reminder was unveiled this week in the Netflix series “The Clubhouse: A Year With the Red Sox,” where Duran shared his deeply personal battle with mental health issues and a previous suicide attempt.
Duran courageously revealed that in 2022, as his baseball career seemed to be faltering, he struggled with suicidal thoughts. Through the show and subsequent media interactions, he aimed to inspire hope and encourage those in similar situations to seek help.
“Reaching out for help isn’t easy,” he conceded to a substantial group of reporters in the Red Sox clubhouse before their game against the Toronto Blue Jays. “Resources are available, but when you’re in that dark place, opening up feels impossible. It’s a hundred percent you versus you, and shutting down feels inevitable, which can be profoundly isolating.”
In his statement, Duran emphasized the importance of being open about his struggles. Even his parents were unaware of the depths of his difficulties until they watched his candid disclosure during the Netflix interview. He hoped that his openness would resonate with someone who needed encouragement.
Drafted in the seventh round and celebrated as an All-Star before making it to the major leagues in 2021, Duran faced formidable expectations. His initial seasons with the Red Sox alternated between major and minor leagues, which took an emotional toll. The pressure from fans and self-criticism became overwhelming, he expressed, making it challenging to cope with the negativity.
“Hearing fans berate you echoes your own harsh inner voice,” he said. “I struggled profoundly to the point of questioning my presence both in baseball and life itself.” This heartbreaking revelation included his account of a suicide attempt.
Initially hesitant to share his story, Duran stated that speaking up during the documentary production was unplanned but came from a desire to help others facing similar battles. He took a leap of faith in the hope that it might spark positivity and support.
Despite the cold 35-degree evening at Fenway Park, fans showed their continued support for Duran with usual cheers when he took his place in the lineup. Although his performance that night involved three strikeouts, his courage in sharing his story shone brighter. His parents expressed gratitude and pride in their son’s resilience and his willingness to use his platform to aid others.
Red Sox manager Alex Cora and team president Sam Kennedy praised Duran’s honesty and bravery, seeing it as a critical message that could save lives and transcend the sport.
Duran felt immense pride in the organization’s ongoing support and camaraderie among teammates. As a fellow player wore a T-shirt advocating for the Jarren Duran Community Foundation, the team’s backing was palpable. This philanthropy reflected Duran’s internal battle inscription, offering a message of hope and survival.
Red Sox pitcher Richard Fitts highlighted the importance of Duran’s story, emphasizing its unparalleled impact: “Baseball is a game that brings happiness, but sharing personal stories like Jarren’s reaches beyond the sport, touching lives and instilling hope.”