Major League Baseball has banned two fans who interfered with Mookie Betts during a World Series game at Yankee Stadium from attending any MLB games in the future.
MLB sent a letter to Austin Capobianco and John P. Hansen, informing them of their indefinite ban.
The letter stated: “On October 29, 2024, during Game 4 of the World Series at Yankee Stadium, you interfered with play by intentionally and forcefully grabbing a player. Your conduct posed a serious risk to the health and safety of the player and went far beyond what is acceptable behavior for fans.”
It continued: “As a result, you are banned indefinitely from all MLB stadiums, offices, and other facilities. You are also prohibited from attending any MLB-related events. If you are found at an MLB property or event, you will be removed and could be arrested for trespassing.”
This action follows similar bans MLB has issued in the past for fans who trespass on the field or threaten players. For example, in 2023, a fan who approached Ronald Acuña Jr. at Coors Field was also banned from MLB events.
Capobianco and Hansen were kicked out of the game on October 29 and barred from attending Game 5 the next night.
The incident happened when Betts, in foul territory, leaped to catch a pop fly from Gleyber Torres in the first inning. As he made the catch, a fan in the front row grabbed Betts’ glove and yanked the ball out. Another fan even grabbed Betts’ bare hand. The Yankees quickly condemned the behavior as “egregious and unacceptable.”
The team clarified that the banned fans were not season ticket holders.
