Yankees fan Austin Capobianco is hoping he can be back watching the Bombers sooner than later.
The Post first reported earlier Wednesday that Capobianco and his friend were barred from attending Game 5 of the World Series after they attempted to heavily interfere with a foul ball caught by Dodgers right fielder Mookie Betts on Tuesday night.
In a follow-up, ESPN reporter Jesse Rogers spoke to Capobianco about Wednesday evening’s ban.
John Angelillo/UPI/Shutterstock
According to Rogers, the fan “said he got a call from the Yankees today about being banned tonight. Was told if he or his friend try to get in with other tickets, they’ll be arrested at the door. He’s hoping it’s a short term ban.”
Capobianco immediately became a polarizing figure on social media, as some Yankees fans are celebrating his interference as the potential moment when the World Series momentum flipped, while other observers want him arrested and/or barred from Yankee Stadium for life.
The Yankees confirmed in a statement that Capobianco and his friend were barred from Game 5.
“The safety and security of players, fans and Stadium staff is the foundational element of every event held at Yankee Stadium, and it cannot be compromised,” the team said.
“Tonight marks the final home game of year, and we want every ounce of our fans’ passion on display. Yankee Stadium is known for its energy and intensity, however the exuberance of supporting one’s team can never cross the line into 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 in any capacity.”
In an extra surreal twist, future Hall of Fame tight end Rob Gronkowski revealed that he knew Capobianco from their time together at the University of Arizona.
“Austin was a college friend. Very passionate about the teams he represents. Will do anything for them. A menace, wild boy as well, he is the person that undoubtedly would say he would do that then actually do it. Maniac status since college has been confirmed,” Gronkowski wrote on X.