Atlanta Braves, Jorge Soler hit by lawsuit after woman hit by baseball
HOUSTON, TX - OCTOBER 27: Jorge Soler #12 of the Atlanta Braves jokes with Jose Altuve #27 of the Houston Astros during Game 2 of the 2021 World Series at Minute Maid Park on Wednesday, October 27, 2021 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Mary DeCicco/MLB P
ATLANTA - The Atlanta Braves and World Series Most Valuable Player, Jorge Soler, are facing a lawsuit after a baseball fan says she was hit in the eye with a baseball thrown by Soler.
This incident is reported to have taken place during Game Three of the World Series back in October 2021. The lawsuit, filed by Mayra Norris, claims that she had no opportunity to react or avoid the baseball when it struck her, emphasizing that the alleged incident occurred when the baseball was not in play.
Mayra Norris is seeking compensation for the damages she sustained as a result of the incident and is also seeking reimbursement for her attorney's fees. Her husband is also seeking compensation for his loss of companionship, love, affection and intimacy as a result of the injuries suffered by Norris. The case is currently under review in the Cobb County Superior Court, and further developments are expected in the coming days.
Soler is now playing for the Miami Marlins.
A spokesperson for the Atlanta Braves released this statement on Thursday:
"We are aware of the recent lawsuit filed by Mr. and Mrs. Norris against the Atlanta Braves and Jorge Soler. Mrs. Norris' injury was not due to any negligence on the part of Jorge Soler, the Braves, or anyone affiliated with our organization. We intend to answer and deny the claims, and immediately move for the court to dismiss the case based on the legal precedent that has clearly and unwaveringly been set not only in Georgia, but across the country."
The long-held "Baseball Rule" states that being hit with a ball is an "inherent" risk. In 2000, that rule was challenged in court with a similar suit brought against the Braves and Andruw Jones. A judge dissed the case. At least three other similar cases were similarly dismissed.