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2 fans charged after rushing field, touching Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. in middle of game

DENVER — Two fans have been charged after they rushed the field and made contact with Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. in the middle of a game.

Video from Monday night shows Acuña Jr. approached by fans who were trying to take a selfie with the Braves outfielder in the seventh inning against the Rockies. As security tried to drag the fans off the field, Acuña was knocked down.

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Denver police on Tuesday identified the fans as Carlos Rivelo-Piaz and Jefferson Gonzales-Merida. Both have been arrested on trespassing and disturbing the peace charges.

A third fan jumped onto the field and back into the stands. He was only cited for trespassing and will not be charged.

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Acuña stayed and finished the game after the fans were taken into custody.

“I was a little scared at first, but I think the fans were out there and asking for a picture,” Acuña said through his interpreter postgame. “Security was able to get there, and so I think everything’s OK, everyone’s OK.”

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