Yankees, MLB issue lifetime ban to fan who hit Verdugo with ball

The New York Yankees and Major League Baseball have banned a fan for life from Yankee Stadium and all 29 other ballparks after he threw a ball that hit Boston Red Sox outfielder Alex Verdugo during Saturday's game, a team spokesperson said, according to Brendan Kuty of NJ.com.

"While the Yankees appreciate the spirit and passion of our fans in our various rivalries - especially with the Red Sox - reckless, disorderly and dangerous behavior that puts the safety of players, field staff or fellow fans in jeopardy will not be tolerated," the Yankees said in a statement. "There is absolutely no place for it at Yankee Stadium. The safety of everyone at Yankee Stadium, including guests in the stands and players on the field, will always be the top priority for the Yankees organization every time we open our doors."

The incident occurred shortly before the game was called off due to heavy rainfall. Verdugo initially threw the ball into the stands to a young Red Sox fan, but it was caught by the person who eventually threw it back and hit the outfielder in the back.

The fan was not arrested but was escorted from the ballpark, Kuty notes.