Watch: MLB Pitcher Throws a Punch at Fan Who ‘Crossed the Line’
Pittsburgh Pirates reliever Dennis Santana experienced a confrontation with a fan during a game against the Detroit Tigers. The altercation occurred in the second game of a doubleheader, where Santana, noting the fan had “crossed the line,” was seen jumping and swiping at the individual. Although Santana did not disclose the specific words exchanged, he emphasized that such an incident was unprecedented in his eight years in baseball. Videos circulating on social media show Santana pointing out the fan to a police officer before the incident escalated. After being separated by teammates and personnel, Santana entered the game later but expressed regret for his actions in discussions with the team’s manager. The pirates went on to win the game 8-4.
Pittsburgh Pirates reliever Dennis Santana was involved in an altercation with a fan he said “crossed the line” during the second game of Thursday’s doubleheader with the Detroit Tigers — and at one point was seen leaping and swiping at the person.
“You guys know me — I’m a calm demeanor type of person,” Santana said after the game through an interpreter. “I’ve never had any issues for any of the teams I’ve played for. This guy crossed the line a few times.”
Santana declined to disclose what the fan said.
“He crossed the line, and I’d like to leave it at that. I’ve never had anything like this happen in my eight years in baseball,” he said.
In videos posted to social media, Santana can be seen pointing out the fan to a police officer before jumping and swinging at the person, who was in the front row above the Pittsburgh bullpen at Comerica Park.
Live from comerica park🤣 dennis santana swings on a fan with a tigers hat and pirates jersey lmfao@woodwardsports @barstoolsports @mlb @Pirates @DennisSantanaRD pic.twitter.com/ulPd2YuqsM
— daddy (@_shadky) June 20, 2025
He did not have any complaints about how security officers handled the situation.
“My job is as a pitcher, not as security, so I can’t discuss their job,” he said. “I respect them and what they do.”
The fan appeared to be wearing a Tigers hat and a shirt honoring Pirates Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente.
After jumping at the fan, Santana was escorted away by Pirates bullpen personnel and held back by a teammate.
He entered the game in the ninth inning, pitching to one batter before the game was delayed by rain. The Pirates won, 8-4.
Santana said he discussed the incident with manager Don Kelly.
“He knows I regret what I did,” Santana said. “You know I’m a professional.”
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
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