Fact Check: White Sox ban fan for taunting Ketel Marte about his deceased mother
What We Know
On June 25, 2025, during a game between the Chicago White Sox and the Arizona Diamondbacks, a 22-year-old fan was banned indefinitely from all Major League Baseball (MLB) ballparks after making a derogatory comment about Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte's late mother, Elpidia Valdez, who died in a car accident in 2017. The incident reportedly occurred while Marte was at bat in the seventh inning, and he was visibly upset, brought to tears by the comment (ESPN, CBS News).
Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo and bench coach Jeff Banister witnessed the incident and requested the fan's ejection. Following the game, MLB issued a statement commending the White Sox for their swift action, emphasizing that there is "no place in the game or the ballparks for offensive language" (CBS News).
Analysis
The claim that a fan was banned for taunting Ketel Marte about his deceased mother is supported by multiple credible sources. Both ESPN and CBS News reported on the incident, detailing the emotional impact it had on Marte and the immediate response from the White Sox organization. The reports indicate that the fan's actions were not only inappropriate but also led to a broader discussion about fan behavior in sports.
The sources cited are reputable, with ESPN being a well-established sports news outlet and CBS News providing comprehensive coverage of local and national events. Both outlets confirmed that the fan's comments were directed at Marte's late mother, and they noted the emotional distress caused to the player during the game. Additionally, MLB's involvement in the situation adds a layer of authority to the claims, as the league's policies on fan conduct are well-documented (ESPN, CBS News).
While the specific words used by the fan have not been disclosed, the consensus among the reports is that the comment was deeply offensive and inappropriate, warranting the ban. The White Sox organization, along with MLB, has taken a firm stance against such behavior, reinforcing their commitment to maintaining a respectful environment for players and fans alike.
Conclusion
The claim that a fan was banned for taunting Ketel Marte about his deceased mother is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that the incident occurred as described, leading to significant emotional distress for Marte and a swift response from the White Sox and MLB. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding fan behavior in sports and the importance of maintaining respect for players and their families.
