Ump attacker charged with battery

Last Updated: Thursday, April 17, 2003 | 11:27 PM ET

CBC Sports

A judge has set a bond of $250,000 US for a man who attacked an umpire during a Chicago White Sox game on Tuesday at U.S. Cellular Field.

Eric Dybas has been charged with one count of felony aggravated battery and one count of misdemeanour criminal trespass.

He could face up to five years in prison if convicted.

Eric Dybas is escorted off the field by security on Tuesday.(AP Photo)

Dybas, 24, raced out of the stands and grabbed umpire Laz Diaz around the leg as Chicago's Carlos Lee flied out down the right-field line to end the eighth inning.

Diaz, who has a military background, defended himself well and Royals outfielder Brandon Berger hustled to his aid.

A number of other players from both teams also rushed over to help.

Three times earlier Tuesday night, the game was delayed when fans ran onto the field before being tackled by security guards.

Those fans were charged with misdemeanor trespassing.

Last September in Chicago, current Kansas City bullpen coach Tom Gamboa was attacked by a pair of fans while coaching first base.