Two New York Yankees fans were banned from Wednesday night’s World Series game in the Bronx after they crossed into the field of play and interfered with Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts.
In the first inning of Game 4 on Tuesday night at Yankee Stadium, Betts sprinted into foul ground and caught a popup before a fan in a gray Yankees road jersey reached out and tried ripping the ball out of the right fielder’s glove.
Then another fan, in sunglasses and a pinstripe jersey, grabbed Betts’ right wrist as the player tried to secure the ball and glove on his left hand.
The pair jarred the ball loose, but umpires immediately ruled Yankees batter Gleyber Torres out and the front row fans were kicked out.
“Last night two fans were ejected from Yankee Stadium for egregious and unacceptable physical contact with Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts,” the Yankees said in a statement on Wednesday. “The safety and security of players, fans and Stadium staff is the foundational element of every event held at Yankee Stadium, and it cannot be compromised.”
The Yankees went on to win Game 4, 11-4, and Game 5 is set for 8:08 p.m. ET on Wednesday.
Los Angeles leads the best-of-7 seres, 3-1, and Wednesday night’s contest in the Bronx will be the Yankees’ last home date of 2024.
“Tonight marks the final home game of year, and we want every ounce of our fans’ passion on display. Yankee Stadium is known for its energy and intensity, however the exuberance of supporting one’s team can never cross the line into intentionally putting players at physical risk,” according to the club.
“The Yankees and Major League Baseball maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward the type of behavior displayed last night. These fans will not be permitted to attend tonight’s game in any capacity.”
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
