Banned from Yankee Stadium: Avid Fans Punished for Interfering with Dodgers' Mookie Betts
ICARO Media Group
### Yankees Fans Banned After Interfering with Dodgers' Mookie Betts
Two avid New York Yankees supporters, Austin Capobianco and John Peter, have been prohibited from attending Game 5 of the World Series following an incident involving Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts in Game 4. This decision was announced on Wednesday by the Yankees, who deemed the fans' behavior as "egregious and unacceptable."
The Yankees' statement emphasized that the protection and safety of players, fans, and stadium employees are paramount and cannot be compromised. "Tonight marks the final home game of the 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," the statement read.
Capobianco, a season-ticket holder, and Peter were removed from the stadium after they interfered with Betts during a play in the first inning. During this play, Betts made a leaping catch along the right-field line in foul territory to nab Gleyber Torres' popup. Capobianco, who was sitting in the front row, grabbed Betts' glove with both hands and yanked the ball out, while Peter grasped Betts' wrist.
In response to this interference, Betts reacted angrily, and Torres was instantly called out on fan interference. Despite the Yankees winning Game 4 with an 11-4 victory, Betts was focused on the loss rather than the incident. "When it comes to the person in play, it doesn't matter," he commented. "We lost. It's irrelevant. I'm fine. He's fine. Everything's cool. We lost the game and that's what I'm kind of focused on."
Though the Yankees refunded Capobianco for his Game 5 tickets, they informed him that attempting to enter the stadium for the game would result in his arrest. Capobianco expressed hope for a temporary ban, stating, "We don't want to lose the season tickets."
It remains unclear whether this prohibition will extend into the following season. As the situation unfolds, the emphasis from the Yankees' management remains on ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all involved in the game.