Unruly Brew Fans Nearly Cost Forfeit

American League

Spring madness came early to County Stadium on Monday.

Mike Matheny hit a grand slam and the Milwaukee Brewers beat the Texas Rangers 5-3 in their home opener in front of 42,893 fans, many of whom littered the field with giveaway baseballs, causing three delays and threatening the first forfeit in the club’s 28-year history.

The Brewers, who begin a three-day “Spring Madness” promotion on Wednesday in which bleacher seats cost but $1, were nearly done in by some of their fans on Monday.

Although nobody was hurt, the specter of injury spoiled the day for many observers who braved 35-degree temperatures and 25 mph winds, and Texas manager Johnny Oates played the game under protest. He pulled his players off the field twice in the second inning.

“I wasn’t just concerned about the players,” Oates said. “I was concerned about the kids in the lower deck. I didn’t want anybody to get hurt.”

Finally, Brewers manager Phil Garner and umpire crew chief Jim McKean took a microphone and admonished the fans to behave, and the rest of the game was played without incident, although there were several fights in the stands.

Moments before their plea near home plate, McKean had met with Garner, Brewers owner Bud Selig and general manager Sal Bando in Garner’s office.

According to Garner, McKean told them: “This is close to being forfeited. If I have to take them off the field again, this game is going to be forfeited.”

The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s office reported issuing 112 citations, including 14 for throwing baseballs on the field, a transgression that carries a $105 fine.

Tigers 10, Twins 4

Detroit

Home field was finally an advantage for Detroit.

The Tigers, who ended last season with a team-record 17 straight losses at Tiger Stadium, won their home opener on a chilly and windy day, beating Minnesota.

A’s 6, Red Sox 2

Oakland

Having rattled balls around the Kingdome for 25 runs worth of offense during the weekend, Boston’s hitting attack took a catnap, mustering just six hits while falling to Oakland.

Mark McGwire and Jason Giambi each hit two-run homers for the A’s.

Yankees 5, Angels 3

Anaheim, Calif.

Derek Jeter continued to impress from the leadoff spot with three hits and scored twice as New York beat Anaheim.