"Rob Gronkowski's friend just got banned", "They did nothing wrong" - Fans split over MLB banning Yankees fans involved in Mookie Betts incident

MLB reached a verdict on two Yankees fans who grappled with Mookie Betts' glove in right field during Game 4 of the World Series. The two - Austin Capobianco and John P. Hansen - are banned indefinitely from watching any MLB game at any stadium.

The incident took place at Yankee Stadium when Mookie Betts had tracked down the flyball of Gleybor Torres near the seats of the right field. When he caught it, the two Yankees fans tried to get the ball out of the hands of the Dodgers outfielder. However, the umpire recorded it out, and the security escorted both fans outside before they learned that they were banned from attending Game 5.

Interestingly, New England Patriots legendary tight end Rob Gronkowski claims to be friends with one of the fan from his time in Arizona during college, during his appearance on "Up & Adams Show." Moreover, Gronkowski was proud of the fan's effort as he claimed in October.

"Rob Gronkowski's friend just got banned," one fan commented.

Fans were divided over the news of the two fans' ban.

"They did nothing wrong," one wrote.

"Why dude?? They didnt cause any harm, and im sure they just seen the ball, and it all went blank. They’re using them as an example," another wrote in support.

However, there were some who feel MLB made the right decision to ban them.

"Finally a fan ban that actually makes sense - imagine thinking you can grab a player and just walk away with no consequences," one fan said.

"I support the decision by MLB 100% and am glad they took action against those Yankee fans for their assault on Mookie Betts. Legally, they could be charged for Battery. There is no excuse whatsoever for their behavior. Fans are here to watch and stay of the way of the game," another added.

One fan believes MLB should have no business with banning anyone, though.

"Thing is, MLB doesn’t own any of the stadiums, in many cases cities (or their stadium authorities) do. Not sure MLB can dictate how a public entity conducts business," another wrote.

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MLB's statement regarding banning the fans involved in Mookie Betts hand-grabbing incident

On closely watching the Mookie Betts play unfold, MLB arrived at the conclusion that the act of the fans could have resulted in a serious injury to the Dodgers player.

On Friday, MLB released its statement concerning the incident with Mookie Betts, which read:

"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 over the line of acceptable fan behavior.

"Based on your conduct, Major League Baseball ('MLB') is banning you indefinitely from all MLB stadiums, offices, and other facilities. You are also hereby banned indefinitely from attending any events sponsored by or associated with MLB. Please be advised that if you are discovered at any MLB property or event, you will be removed from the premises and subject to arrest for trespass."

Despite the attempt made by fans to support the Yankees, manager Aaron Boone was critical of the act of the two fans, saying that "it shouldn't happen." It remains to be seen if the fans appeal the decision or accept their fate.