Woman Sues New York Yankees For $10m After Flying Bat Causes Brain Injury

A woman has filed a $10 million lawsuit against the New York Yankees after being struck in the head by a bat thrown into the stands, alleging she suffered a traumatic brain injury while sitting in the stadium’s luxury section.

Stephanie Duluc, 37, chief of staff at SOMOS Community Care, was attending a game on June 2 in the fourth row behind home plate. During the fifth inning, Cleveland Guardians infielder Jose Ramirez lost control of his bat mid-swing, sending it flying into her section.

The court filing notes that these premium seats require protective netting to shield fans from foul balls and equipment. However, the lawsuit alleges the netting in that area was significantly lower than adjacent sections, leaving an unprotected opening that allowed the bat to clear the screen.

The lawsuit claims the impact knocked Duluc from her seat to the ground, resulting in a traumatic brain injury, concussion, severe light sensitivity, and permanent damage to her neck and hands. The filing states that the injuries have left her unable to return to her professional duties.

Questions arose regarding her recovery after she appeared on a television broadcast in late July to discuss a company event. Addressing the appearance, her attorney, Jon L. Norinsberg, stated that a brief television segment does not indicate full recovery, maintaining that she continues to experience persistent headaches, cognitive impairments, and light sensitivity.