In a shocking turn of events at Petco Park last night, the identity of the San Diego Padres fan who allegedly threw a lighter at Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal, causing a head injury, has been uncovered. The incident, which left Skubal bleeding on the mound during the seventh inning of a heated playoff game, has sparked outrage across the baseball community and beyond.

The fan, identified as 34-year-old local resident Brandon “Bucky” Morales, a self-proclaimed “Padres superfan,” was reportedly caught on high-definition stadium cameras hurling the object from the stands. Witnesses claim Morales was visibly agitated throughout the game, shouting profanities and taunting opposing players. “He was screaming about Skubal’s curveball being ‘overrated’ and kept waving his beer around,” said one spectator seated nearby. “Nobody expected him to actually throw something.”

Skubal, who was dominating with a 2.14 ERA in the postseason, collapsed after the lighter struck his temple, causing a deep gash. Medical staff rushed to his aid as players from both teams stood in stunned silence. The game was delayed for 20 minutes while Skubal was escorted off the field. The Tigers later confirmed he suffered a concussion and will miss the remainder of the playoffs.

Morales, a mechanic with a history of minor altercations at local bars, was apprehended by stadium security and handed over to San Diego police. Authorities found additional items in his possession, including a half-empty pack of cigarettes and a Padres-themed flask. “This is an egregious act of violence,” said Padres CEO Erik Greupner in a statement. “We are cooperating fully with law enforcement and have banned Mr. Morales from all future games.”

Social media erupted with condemnation, with #BanBucky trending on X within hours. Fans and analysts alike called for harsher penalties, with some suggesting Morales face felony assault charges. “This isn’t just about baseball,” tweeted ESPN’s Jeff Passan. “This is about basic human decency. Skubal could’ve been killed.”

Morales’ family, however, claims he’s being unfairly targeted. “Brandon’s passionate, sure, but he’s no criminal,” said his cousin, Maria Morales. “He just got caught up in the moment. That lighter probably slipped out of his hand.” The explanation has done little to quell public fury, with many demanding justice for Skubal.

The incident has reignited debates over fan behavior and stadium safety. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred announced a review of security protocols, including potential bans on hard objects like lighters and stricter alcohol limits. “We cannot allow our players to be endangered,” Manfred said.

As the investigation continues, the baseball world mourns the loss of Skubal’s postseason brilliance and grapples with the ugly side of fandom. Morales is currently out on bail, with a court date set for next month. The Padres, meanwhile, face a 2-1 series deficit and a tarnished reputation.