Red Sox’s Jarren Duran Opens Up About Near-Suicide During Early MLB Career Struggles

Red Sox Star Jarren Duran Opens Up About Suicide Attempt and Comeback
By Oliver Salt | Updated: 15:45 BST, 7 April 2025

Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has revealed he once attempted suicide during a devastating low point in his MLB career, sharing his story in Netflix’s new documentary The Clubhouse.

Duran, 28, struggled early in his MLB journey after debuting in 2021. His rookie season saw him hit just .215 with two home runs and 10 RBIs, followed by a marginally better .221 average in 2022. The pressure of underperforming led him to a harrowing moment in his darkest hour.

Duran during a 2023 game, reflecting on his journey from despair to All-Star success.

A Brush With Tragedy
In the documentary, Duran recounts sitting alone with a rifle and a single bullet. “I pulled the trigger, and the gun clicked. Nothing happened,” he said. “To this day, I think God didn’t let me take my life. I took it as a sign: ‘Alright, I might have to be here for a reason.’”

The California native credits his turnaround to this moment. After a 2023 call-up from Triple-A, he batted .295 with 24 stolen bases and 40 RBIs, becoming a key player for Boston. By 2024, he was an All-Star MVP, setting career highs in home runs (21), RBIs (75), and stolen bases (34).

Mental Health and Resilience
Duran now prioritizes mental health, using handwritten reminders on his wrists during games. On his left wrist, he writes “F*** ’em” to silence self-doubt. On his right, “Still alive” symbolizes his ongoing fight. “I’m still here and still fighting,” he said.

Duran’s 2024 All-Star MVP season marked a triumphant chapter in his career.

A New Chapter
Recently signing a $3.85 million deal with a 2026 team option, Duran’s story is one of resilience. His message to others: “You’re not alone. Keep fighting.”

The Clubhouse, streaming now on Netflix, highlights his journey and MLB’s mental health challenges.

If you or someone you know is struggling, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) in the U.S. or Samaritans at 116 123 in the U.K.

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