The New York Yankees took a hard stance Wednesday, banning two fans from attending Game 5 of the World Series after they interfered with Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts in Tuesday's matchup. For a team and a stadium known for their passionate fan base, this incident became a clear reminder that fan enthusiasm has its limits. In this case, Austin Capobianco and John Peter crossed that line.
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The duo, seated in the first row, grabbed Betts' glove and wrist as he made a leaping attempt at a foul ball hit by Gleyber Torres in the first inning. Betts initially made the catch, but with the interference, the ball came loose, and Torres was called out.
A Yankees fan interferes with Dodgers star Mookie Betts on a flyball.
The Fox replays show the fan ripping the ball out of Betts' glove after he makes the catch.
Joe Davis and John Smoltz provide the commentary. ⚾️🎙️ #WorldSeries #MLB pic.twitter.com/Tmg0ioz65V
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) October 30, 2024
For the Yankees, who went on to win 11-4, the play didn't decide the game — but it cast a shadow over their victory. And the organization wasted no time addressing it, stating that the fans' actions were "egregious and unacceptable," and emphasizing the importance of safety for players, fans, and stadium staff.
Capobianco, who holds season tickets, got his money back for Game 5 but has voiced hopes that the ban won't stretch into next season. For now, though, the Yankees are sending a message: intense support is welcome, but not at the expense of player safety. Betts, taking it all in stride, focused on the bigger picture. "We lost. It's irrelevant," he said postgame.
Still, the Yankees aren't taking any chances, setting an example to keep fan excitement within the lines.
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