The two men ejected from Game 4 of the World Series at Yankee Stadium on Tuesday for interfering with a catch were banned from Game 5.
The New York Post identified the fans as Austin Capobianco and John Peter and reported that they will receive a refund for the price of their tickets.
Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts, who was in right field, ran into foul territory to chase a ball hit by New York’s Gleyber Torres in the second inning. The outfielder had the ball in his glove, at which point a man in a gray Yankees jersey attempted to wrestle the ball away from Betts.
Capobianco, a Yankee season ticket holder wearing a team jersey while sitting in the front row along the right field line, grabbed Betts’ glove (with the ball still inside) and opened it just enough for the ball to come out. . His friend, Peter, held Betts’ right hand.
However, Torres was called to testify.
The Yankees released a statement regarding fans’ “egregious and unacceptable physical contact” with Betts.
“The safety of players, fans and stadium staff is at the heart of every event held at Yankee Stadium, and cannot be compromised,” the team said. “Tonight is the last home game of the year and we want every bit of our fans’ passion to show. Yankee Stadium is known for its energy and intensity, however, the exuberance of supporting a team can never cross the line and intentionally putting players at physical risk.
“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 under any circumstances.”
Since his season seats are close to the action, Capobianco said he has considered giving his team a boost from his front-row position.
“We always joke about the ball in our area,” Capobianco told ESPN. “We’re not going to go out of our way to attack. If it’s in our area, we’re going to defend.”
“Someone defends, someone hits the ball. We talk about it. We’re willing to do it.”
The Yankees won 11-4 to avoid elimination. The Dodgers have a 3-1 series lead heading into Game 5, which will be played Wednesday night in New York.
–Field level media
