Stephanie Duluc, a 37-year-old chief of staff at Bronx-based SOMOS Community Care, has filed a $10 million lawsuit against the New York Yankees after she was allegedly struck in the head by a bat thrown into the stands during a game at Yankee Stadium. The incident occurred on June 2, during the fifth inning, when Cleveland Guardians infielder Jose Ramirez lost his grip on the bat mid-swing, sending it flying into the fourth-row seats directly behind home plate where Duluc was seated.
Lawsuit Alleges Inadequate Protective Netting
The lawsuit, filed in Manhattan federal court, claims that the protective netting at Yankee Stadium was "significantly lower" than adjacent sections, leaving an "unprotected opening" that allowed the bat to reach Duluc. The netting is designed to shield fans from foul balls and errant bats, but in this case, it failed to stop the high-speed projectile. The suit states, "It is the one location where the law has long required a stadium operator to provide adequate protective screening."
According to the court filing, the bat struck Duluc with such force that it knocked her from her seat and violently threw her to the ground, causing severe and permanent injuries. She claims to have suffered a traumatic brain injury, concussion, severe light sensitivity, and permanent damage to her neck and hands, leaving her completely unable to return to her professional duties.
Broadcast Captures Shocking Moment
The incident was captured live on the Yes Network broadcast, with play-by-play announcer Michael Kay reacting in horror. "Bat goes one way, ball goes another," Kay said. "Bat goes into the stands — over the screen too." As cameras showed Duluc holding her head, he added, "There's a woman who got hit; she's on her feet now."
The lawsuit emphasizes that these are some of the most expensive seats in the stadium, yet they are also among the most dangerous due to the inadequate netting. The filing argues that the Yankees failed to provide the required protective screening, putting fans at risk.
Attorney Defends Client Amid TV Appearance
Despite her alleged injuries, Duluc appeared on PIX11's "Monica Makes It Happen" in late July, less than two weeks before filing the lawsuit. During the segment, she discussed a recent event sponsored by her company at Fordham University under studio lighting. When questioned about whether the TV appearance contradicted her injury claims, her attorney, Jon L. Norinsberg, said "not at all."
"Ms. Duluc continues to suffer significant residual deficits from her traumatic brain injury, including persistent headaches, sensitivity to light, balance issues, and other cognitive impairments," Norinsberg stated. "A brief television appearance does not mean she has recovered or is capable of performing her professional duties on a sustained basis." Norinsberg also represents former banker Chirayu Rana in a separate "sex slave" lawsuit against JPMorgan.
Legal and Safety Implications
The lawsuit raises questions about stadium safety protocols and the adequacy of protective netting in Major League Baseball venues. The Yankees have not yet publicly responded to the lawsuit. This case could set a precedent for how teams handle fan safety, particularly in high-risk seating areas behind home plate.
Duluc's legal team argues that the Yankees were aware of the risks and failed to take necessary precautions, making them liable for her injuries. The $10 million sought includes damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of income due to her inability to work.
As the case proceeds, it will likely draw attention to the broader issue of fan safety at sporting events, with advocates calling for enhanced protective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
