An estimated 30 percent of MLB players use smokeless tobacco, but no one on the Yankees or Astros dipped Wednesday during their game in the Bronx.
New York mayor Bill de Blasio signed a law before the game that banned smokeless tobacco use in all New York City sports and recreational areas that issue tickets. New York joins San Francisco, Boston and Los Angeles in implementing such laws, though none of those cities have yet to host a game this MLB season.
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"We are taking a huge step forward to ensure that our youth are not exposed to dangerous practices," de Blasio said, via ESPN.com.
A ban approved by Chicago's City Council is expected to take effect at Wrigley Field and U.S. Cellular Field sometime this season as well. Violators at ballparks will not only be subjected to a fine between $100-$250 for first-time violations, but also could face punishment from the commissioner's office.
"Players or anybody in baseball found to have violated a law are subject to discipline from the commissioner," MLB chief legal counsel Dan Halem told ESPN. "Smokeless tobacco laws are no different."
The state of California is also expected to enact a ban that will be in effect by 2017, meaning 10 of 30 MLB stadiums and teams will have the smokeless tobacco ban in place next season.