The World Series is a time-honored tradition, a clash of the titans where the best of the best in baseball come together to determine the ultimate champion. This year's matchup between two storied franchises promised to captivate audiences and generate record-breaking viewership and sales. While the on-field action lived up to the hype, with heroes like Freddie Freeman emerging, the actions of a few fans have cast a troubling shadow over the proceedings.

Sabotaging the Spectacle: When Fans Cross the Line

In a shocking incident during Game 4, Mookie Betts' attempt to make a catch in the stands was obstructed by two "fans." This is not the first time such an occurrence has happened, but the premeditated nature of this particular incident sets it apart. Rather than a genuine accident, these individuals deliberately sought to influence the outcome of the game, a clear violation of the rules and the spirit of the sport.

The Bartman Precedent: Lessons Unlearned

The situation evokes memories of the infamous Steve Bartman incident in Chicago, where a fan's involvement in a play led to life-altering consequences. While Bartman's case was eventually rectified, the damage done to his life serves as a cautionary tale. Yet, in the aftermath of the recent World Series incident, the perpetrators have received glowing media recognition, a jarring contrast to the treatment Bartman endured.

The Rise of the Self-Absorbed Fan

This trend of fans actively involving themselves in the game is not limited to the World Series. Incidents like the altercation between Zack Hample and Coors Field security have become increasingly common, driven by a self-absorbed mentality that prioritizes personal gain over the sanctity of the game.

Crossing the Line: Intentional Sabotage vs. Accidental Interference

While accidental ball-grabs may be seen as harmless, the intentional sabotage witnessed in the World Series is a different matter entirely. MLB's decision to ban the offending fans from Game 5 was a step in the right direction, but the ensuing media coverage that celebrated their actions is deeply concerning. The precedent being set suggests that as long as the perpetrators are personable, their actions may be overlooked or even glorified.

The Slippery Slope: Lessons from College Football

The consequences of such a precedent can be seen in the issues plaguing college football, where the precedent of fans throwing trash on the field has led to referee decisions being changed. If MLB fails to crack down on these incidents, especially on the grandest stage, they risk setting themselves up for similar problems down the line.

Coors Field: A Bastion of Civility

Fortunately, Colorado fans have not had to deal with such uncouth behavior at Coors Field. However, the Rockies' own incident earlier this year, where a fan's reach over the railing erased a walk-off win, serves as a reminder that no ballpark is immune to these issues.

A Call to Action: Respecting the Game and Its Fans

As fans, it is our responsibility to uphold the integrity of the sport we love. Attending games should be about creating memories, not becoming a trending topic on social media. It is time to reset the expectations around acceptable behavior at ballparks, ensuring that the game remains the focus and that the actions of a few do not overshadow the achievements of the players.