"Yankees Fans Banned from Game 5 After Interfering with Dodgers' Mookie Betts in World Series"

Two New York Yankees fans who were removed from Game 4 of the World Series after grabbing a ball from Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts’ glove will be banned from attending Game 5 at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday.

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During the bottom of the first inning, Betts chased a foul ball hit by Yankees second baseman Gleyber Torres along the right-field line. As Betts appeared to catch the ball, one fan pried open his glove, causing the ball to drop, while another fan grabbed Betts' other hand.

Reports from ESPN indicated that the fans initially believed they could attend Wednesday's game. However, an MLB source confirmed to CNN that the league has informed the Yankees that the two fans will be banned from Game 5, with the Yankees fully supporting the decision.

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In a statement, the Yankees said, “Last night, two fans were ejected from Yankee Stadium for unacceptable physical contact with Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts. The safety and security of players, fans, and stadium staff is paramount at Yankee Stadium, and will not be compromised."

The team emphasized its zero-tolerance policy, adding, “The energy and intensity Yankee Stadium is known for must never cross the line into behavior that endangers players. These fans will not be permitted to attend tonight’s game in any capacity.”

Betts reacted with frustration to the incident, and the umpire ruled Torres out due to fan interference.

The Fox commentary team remarked on the incident, with Joe Davis acknowledging the fans’ enthusiasm with “A for effort,” while former All-Star pitcher John Smoltz predicted, “He won’t be watching the game much longer.” Videos on social media later showed the fans being escorted out as they exchanged high-fives with fellow Yankees fans.

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One fan, reportedly a season-ticket holder, told The Athletic, “We always joke about what we’d do if a foul ball came our way. We weren’t going to go out of our way, but 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.”

This World Series, Torres has had more than one encounter with fan interference. In Game 1, he was awarded a double after a fan reached over the wall to catch his hit towards left field at Dodger Stadium.