Following up on an ugly incident during the World Series, Major League Baseball banned two fans indefinitely from all stadiums and facilities.
Following up on an ugly incident during the World Series, Major League Baseball banned two fans indefinitely from all stadiums and facilities.
John P. Hansen and Austin Capobianco, seated in the first row at Game 4 of the World Series at Yankee Stadium in New York, tried to prevent Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Mookie Betts from catching a foul ball hit by Gleyber Torres of the Yankees in the first inning. One attempted to rip the ball from Betts’ glove, and the other grabbed Betts’ wrist.
In a letter sent this week, MLB wrote to the two fans, “On October 29, 2024, during Game 4 of the World Series at Yankee Stadium, you interfered with play by intentionally and forcefully grabbing a player. Your conduct posed a serious risk to the health and safety of the player and went far over the line of acceptable fan behavior.
“Based on your conduct, Major League Baseball (‘MLB’) is banning you indefinitely from all MLB stadiums, offices, and other facilities. You are also hereby banned indefinitely from attending any events sponsored by or associated with MLB.
“Please be advised that if you are discovered at any MLB property or event, you will be removed from the premises and subject to arrest for trespass.”
The fans were both ejected from the game after the incident and were barred from attending Game 5 the following evening, when the Dodgers won to clinch the championship.
Neither fan was a season ticket holder. The fan whose seats the two occupied will be permitted to keep the spot moving forward, according to MLB.com.
The Yankees won the game 11-4.
