Mookie Betts made a game-saving catch in Game 4 of last October’s World Series, despite interference from two New York Yankees fans. This week, Major League Baseball issued a ruling banning those fans from all MLB games indefinitely.
The incident occurred when Betts leaped into the stands at Yankee Stadium to make the catch, only to have his glove and arm grabbed by two spectators, Austin Capobianco and John P. Hansen. MLB’s decision, detailed in a letter obtained by The Times, stated:
“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 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.”
The fans had already been ejected from Game 4 and were barred from attending Game 5, in which the Dodgers clinched the championship. According to MLB’s letter, any future attempts by the fans to attend MLB properties or events would result in their removal and possible arrest for trespassing.
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Capobianco admitted to ESPN after the game that he and Hansen had planned to interfere with play if a fly ball came their way. “We always joke about the ball in our area,” he said. “If it’s in our area, we’re going to ‘D’ up. Someone defends, someone knocks the ball. We talk about it. We’re willing to do this.”
However, Capobianco later expressed regret to The Times, admitting, “I’m a way too passionate fan that probably crossed the line last night. [Betts is] so damn good, and that play he made was impressive. World Series juices and desperation kicked in, and that was the result.”
Despite their remorse, neither fan will have the chance to interfere again, as MLB’s indefinite ban ensures they are permanently barred from all league-related events.
