We begin every prayer with the words "Let us remember." We respond, "That we are in the holy presence of God." I shouldn't need this reminder but I do. And I love it. Taking a moment to remember frames what we do, how we stand and and who we are. And reading MLB bans Yankees fans who interfered with Mookie Betts in 2024 World Series from all ballparks indefinitely reminded me that a second call and response might be helpful for all of us.
"Let us remember: actions have consequences."
They can and they should.
The two New York Yankees fans who became infamous figures for interfering with Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts in Game 4 were told “Your conduct posed a serious risk to the health and safety of the player and went far over the line of acceptable fan behavior," said a letter written by MLB to the fans, via The Athletic.
"Based on your conduct, Major League Baseball ('MLB') is banning you indefinitely from all MLB stadiums, offices, and other facilities," the letter continued. "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."
To only send a message about the severity of this event is not enough. The stark consequence it sets a standard. MLB has spoken: we stand behind the integrity of the game and ensuring the well-being of our players. Even fans have a responsibility and that is to respect the rules.
Most likely, the public will not know if Austin Capobianco and John P. Hansen adhere to this ban. But, we do know further actions and consequences will follow. Unfortunately, this is not entirely a deterrent for all.
I was shocked to read that the Timberwolves' Anthony Edwards has been fined five times this season by the league—which has now docked him $285,000 for the infractions. The article reports that the AntMan flashed a middle finger at a game official during an inbounds play in the T-wolves' loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.
In November he was fined $35,000 for flashing a middle finger at a fan in Sacramento. In December he drew three fines - of $25,000 for swearing during a media interview, of $75,000 for using profane language and criticizing game officials, and of $100,000 for swearing during a post-game television interview.
Yes, emotions run hot and high for players and coaches, but they must be kept in check. A zero tolerance policy for how the players treat the officials is essential (in all professional sports). Young people mimic what they see. Clearly the consequences that impact his financial status are not working. Perhaps the league and the players association (NBPA) ought to convene.
Actions and consequences in no way preclude forgiveness—a core Christian value. From time to time however people interpret forgiveness to mean that no matter what we do—how we may have hurt or harmed another—all is okay. I hear quite often "As Catholics, aren't we called to forgive and love everyone?" To me this question is short sighted. We are called to love our neighbors as ourselves. We are asked to forgive seven times 70. Yes AND that doesn't mean that justice bears no responsibility. Reconciliation is never without price. Actions have consequences. This builds the common good. We need this reminder. (The post Ricky Pearsall and Marcus Freeman Choose Hard is about forgiveness).
Today I handed out a detention to two freshman students who continued to talk throughout the Fine Arts Assembly. I gave them a warning and moved to sit next to them. They continued to chat. I couldn't ignore my responsibility to the performers, the other students and to them. I told them they would be meeting with the deans and going to detention. When the show ended, one girl reached out and said "should we wait here?" and then she introduced herself. She apologized. I said "I gave you a chance to change your behavior. It's okay to chat during the breaks but if everyone is talking during the performance as you did, none of us could hear it." They apologized. It was so civil and respectful. Action. Consequence. Lesson learned? Not sure but all parties know what's expected and trust we will be better for it. Let us remember that too...
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