Major League Baseball (MLB) has issued indefinite bans to two New York Yankees fans, Austin Capobianco and John P. Hansen, following their interference with Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts during Game 4 of the 2024 World Series. This incident occurred on October 29, 2024, when Betts attempted to catch a foul ball hit by Yankees player Gleyber Torres. The fans were seated in the front row and made physical contact with Betts, with one trying to pull the ball from his glove and the other grabbing his arm.
In a letter sent to the fans, MLB stated that their actions constituted a serious risk to Betts’ health and safety, exceeding acceptable fan behavior. As a result, they are banned from all MLB stadiums, offices, and events indefinitely. The letter also warned that any future presence at MLB properties would lead to removal and potential arrest for trespassing.
Both fans were ejected from the game immediately after the incident and had their tickets for Game 5 revoked. The Yankees won Game 4 but lost Game 5, which allowed the Dodgers to clinch the World Series title.
Mookie Betts made a spectacular catch during Game 4 of the World Series, leaping at the retaining wall to snag a foul ball hit by Gleyber Torres. However, two New York Yankees fans, seated in the front row, continued to engage with Betts as if trying to pull the ball from his glove. Despite the interference, Betts successfully caught the ball, but the umpire ruled Torres out due to fan interference.
Austin Capobianco, one of the fans involved, expressed to ESPN that he anticipated being back for Game 5, stating, “I patrol that wall and they know that.” Nevertheless, both he and his companion John P. Hansen were barred from attending Game 5 by the Yankees and MLB.The Dodgers ultimately clinched the World Series title with a comeback victory in Game 5.
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