Manager Offers Support to MLB Player Following Fan’s Disturbing Comment About His Late Mother During Game

Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo showed his support for second baseman Ketel Marte after a fan made a disrespectful comment about Marte’s late mother. The incident occurred during a game against the Chicago White Sox at Chicago’s Rate Field on June 24, when Marte appeared visibly upset and in tears during a pitching change.

Lovullo comforted him, placing his arm around Marte while fellow teammate Geraldo Perdomo stood nearby. Marte’s mother passed away in a car accident in 2017, making the interaction particularly distressing for him.

After the game, Lovullo recounted that he overheard the fan’s comment directed at Marte. Although he chose not to disclose the specifics, he acknowledged the emotional impact it had on the player.

Lovullo reflected on witnessing Marte’s reaction, stating, “I looked right at him and he put his head down… it hurt.”

In an interview with Diamondbacks reporter Todd Walsh, Lovullo emphasized his responsibility to support his players during difficult moments. He conveyed a message to Marte, reassuring him that he was not alone and condemning the fan’s actions.

“That guy is an idiot. It shouldn’t have an impact on you,” Lovullo remarked.

The fan was ejected from the game, which the Diamondbacks won, 4-1. Marte, a two-time All-Star, contributed to the victory with a home run in the first inning.

Perdomo also addressed the incident afterward, expressing his frustration and calling for better behavior from fans. “This is baseball, this is for the fans… when they cross the line, we are not with that,” he stated.

Both Lovullo and Perdomo underscored the importance of maintaining respect in the sport.