In an unexpected twist during a baseball game at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, California, a drone caused quite the stir on Monday night while the Oakland Athletics faced off against the Chicago Cubs. The nearly surreal incident unfolded in the seventh inning, leading to a brief but memorable interruption of the game.

As the game progressed with the Cubs leading 18-3, veteran bat boy Stewart Thalblum, 22, took it upon himself to confront the rogue drone that had hovered near the left-field wall. With a quick mind and even quicker reflexes, Thalblum grabbed a baseball bat and went into action, determined to bring down the drone while avoiding injury from its spinning blades.

“The last thing I wanted was to end up with a nasty cut or something worse,” Thalblum, a six-year veteran bat boy, recounted. “I had to figure out a way to stop it from taking off. I started whacking at its wings to prevent it from escaping until I could hand it over to security.”

Thalblum’s actions not only showcased bravery and quick thinking but also revealed the surreal nature of modern sports events, where drones have started to crop up more frequently. Cubs manager Craig Counsell chimed in on the bizarre moment, humorously commenting on the drone’s attempt to fly off with Thalblum, suggesting it's a sign of the times we live in. “It’s 2025, I suppose,” he quipped.

The appearance of the drone added a layer of excitement to what was otherwise a lopsided game. The quirky interruption briefly diverted the players and fans alike, who were initially taken aback by the swift entrance of the UAV. Despite the disruption, it seems the crowd was more amused than annoyed as they witnessed firsthand how sports can intersect with technology in unforeseen ways.

Stewart's father, Mikey Thalblum, a longstanding clubhouse manager for the Athletics, expressed his pride in his son's sharp instincts. “I’m proud of him for a lot of other reasons—more than just taking down a drone. He is just a great kid,” he said with a chuckle. The moment not only highlighted Stewart’s resourcefulness but also added an intriguing memory to an otherwise routine game day.

Ultimately, this unique encounter stirred discussions about safety regulations in sports and how technology, while often celebrated, can sometimes lead to unexpected challenges. As the season progresses, fans and players may find themselves wondering what surprise might hover into view next!