Steve Bartman Incident

During a Baseball Major League Play-Off (like football play-off in England) in October 2004 the Chicago Cubs were playing the Florida Marlins at Wrigly Field in Chicago. The Cubs were attempting to reach the Major League Final for the first time since 1945 and win it for the first time since 1908. The Cubs were 3-2 ahead in the 7 match series and were 3-0 up in the tie with two innings remaining.
In the eighth inning (there are 9 in total), Cubs fan Steve Bartman attempted to catch a 'foul ball' which if caught, would have left the Cubs on the verge of victory. Bartman's touch of the ball stopped fielder Moises Alou catching it and the Cubs went onto lose the game and the series 4-3. After losing the series, the 'Steve Bartman incident' was seen as the turning point in the series.


After the game, Bartman had to be led away from the park under police escort as he was pelted with drinks and other debris. Around 6 police cars at a time were parked outside his house to protect him and his family and following the incident it was suggested he join a witness protection programme. He was sent gifts by Florida Marlins which he asked to be donated to the local charity.Bartman was eventually forced to move to the UK after continued abuse and threats. The Cubs have not won a play-off game since the incident.