A fan known for disrupting home runs at Chase Field has been banned for the rest of the 2025 season following a controversial game-changing play.
According to Breitbart, David McCaskill, a 55-year-old Diamondbacks supporter, is prohibited from attending any more games this season after his latest incident affected the outcome of a critical matchup against the San Francisco Giants.
McCaskill has gained notoriety among fans and staff after interfering with multiple home run balls over time. His actions have earned him the nickname “Home Run Thief." Though the team had previously tolerated his behavior, his interference during a high-stakes game earlier this week proved to be a turning point.
During a recent home game at Chase Field, McCaskill reached over the railing to catch a ball hit by Giants infielder Christian Koss. The play appeared to be a game-tying home run in the late innings.
However, due to McCaskill's interference, umpires ruled the play a ground-rule double instead of awarding a home run. This controversial call changed the momentum of the inning significantly.
Following the ruling, the next two San Francisco batters struck out, effectively ending the Giants' scoring threat. As a result, the Arizona Diamondbacks held onto their lead and secured a 4-2 victory.
On Tuesday, the Diamondbacks officially issued a statement banning McCaskill from attending any remaining games in the 2025 season. This marks the first time the team has taken such a step against an individual fan for game interference.
Though the punishment is definite for this season, the club has not ruled out the possibility of allowing McCaskill to return in 2026. A condition for reinstating his stadium access includes adherence to the team’s Fan Code of Conduct moving forward.
In interviews following the game, McCaskill expressed regret for the outcome and defended his intentions. He also acknowledged the impact of the decision on other fans and the team.
“I have been ejected three times officially,” McCaskill said in a radio segment on Arizona Sports’ Bickley & Marotta. “Two of those were so close to the line, just like last night.”
He continued, “If you watch the video, I catch the ball and my glove comes down. The angle of the camera, it wasn’t the best angle, but that’s my defense.”
Despite defending his recent interference, McCaskill openly apologized, saying, “I apologize to the D-backs. I apologize to the D-backs fans. I would never interfere.”
This is not an isolated incident for McCaskill. According to the team, he has been involved in multiple cases of interference over the years at Chase Field.
His continued pattern of behavior has prompted concern not just for the integrity of specific plays, but also for the broader fan experience. He has officially been removed from the stadium on three separate occasions before this latest ban.
The decision to eject or ban a fan is not made lightly by Major League Baseball teams. In this instance, with game results impacted, the team said it believed strong action was warranted.
The team has reiterated that all fans are responsible for maintaining a safe and fair environment at the ballpark. The Fan Code of Conduct is a league-wide standard intended to protect the integrity of the game.
By leaving the door open for McCaskill’s return in 2026, the Diamondbacks have shown a willingness to forgive–if conditions are met. Until then, however, he will not be allowed inside Chase Field for the remainder of the current season.
The Diamondbacks remain focused on their playoff hopes, and the incident stands as a reminder of how vital fan behavior can be to the outcome of games and the reputation of the team.
