Yankees fans involved in Mookie Betts World Series incident banned from MLB stadiums

Major League Baseball has banned two New York Yankees fans indefinitelyAustin Capobianco and John P. Hansen, from all MLB stadiums after their actions during Game 4 of the 2024 World Series the incident involved Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts and occurred at Yankee Stadiumwhere fans grabbed Betts’ wrist and tried to rip the ball out of his glove after catching a foul ball.

The League considered their behavior “unacceptable” and issued a statement explaining the decision. “Your conduct posed a serious risk to the health and safety of players and crossed the line of acceptable fan behavior,” the letter, obtained by The New York Post, reads. The letter further warned the pair that they would face removal and potential arrest if they appeared on MLB property or at an event.

The Yankees and MLB worked together on the decision to ban Capobianco and Hansen from all MLB parks, not just Yankee Stadium. In a statement, the Yankees called the incident “unacceptable and unacceptable,” reiterating the importance of safety for players and fans.

Yankees fans banned for life after Mookie Betts incident

The conflict occurred in the bottom of the first inning when Yankees pitcher Gleyber Torres hit a foul ball into the right field stands. Betts jumped into the stands to make a great catch, but the fans grabbed his glove and tried to remove the ball. Despite the interference, Betts was able to secure the out.

After their ejection, Capobianco expressed no remorse, telling ESPN: “We always joke about the ball in our area. We will not bother to attack. If it’s in our area, we’ll ‘D’ it up.” He even admitted, “I patrol that wall, and they know it.”

Betts, speaking on the Peacock special called Back That Year Up 2024, did not hold back when reflecting on the incident. “I’d say, ‘Fuck you guys,'” Betts said. “Make them try to get the ball. Cool. But, like, you tried to grab me.” He also revealed that he thought about revenge during the match, but decided against it.

The incident adds another layer to Betts’ memorable postseason. While the Dodgers eventually won the World Series in Game 5, the moment highlighted the challenges of maintaining professionalism in the face of provocative fan behavior.

As for Capobianco and Hansen, their indefinite bans serve as a reminder of MLB’s commitment to providing a safe and respectful environment for players and fans.