A Yankees fan is suing the team for $10 million after she was hit in the head by a flying bat during a game in June. Stephanie Duluc, 37, was sitting in a fourth-row seat behind home plate when Cleveland Guardians infielder Jose Ramirez's bat flew into her section during the fifth inning, according to a lawsuit filed in Manhattan federal court.
The lawsuit claims the protective netting did not keep Duluc safe, and that the bat hit her with such force it knocked her from her seat. She suffered a traumatic brain injury, concussion, severe light sensitivity, and permanent damage to her neck and hands, the lawsuit says.
Duluc has been unable to return to her job as chief of staff at SOMOS Community Care, which owns the seats in that section. Her attorney, Jon L. Norinsberg, said she continues to suffer significant residual deficits, including persistent headaches and balance issues.
The lawsuit argues the Yankees are responsible because the netting in that section was significantly lower than in nearby sections, leaving an unprotected opening. However, the case may face challenges under the century-old Baseball Rule, which usually exempts teams from liability for such injuries, though stadiums can be held liable if they fail to provide adequate protection.