Twins outfielder Shane Robinson was in the visitors' dugout at Yankees stadium when he looked into the stands and saw something that made him uncomfortable.
"Right behind the on-deck circle, the net didn't cover that area, and there was a little kid sitting there by herself,'' Robinson said. "Her parents must have gotten up or something. I was like, 'Man if a foul ball came that way, she's gone.' ''
Unfortunately, there have been several moments in recent years — and this season — where what-if moments have become reality, foul balls and bats have flown into stands and caused serious injuries to fans.
Detroit Tigers star Justin Verlander called for the netting behind home plate to be extended after a fan was struck by a foul ball Aug. 21 at Comerica Park. Fenway Park as had multiple incidents, including June 5 when a woman was hit with a broken bat and needed brain surgery.
And the height of railing around ballparks is in question after Braves fan Gregory Murrey fell to his death from the upper deck at Turner Field on Aug. 29.
Major League Baseball has launched a study to see if changes need to be made to make viewing the game safer.
When StarTribune followers on twitter were asked about expanding nets, the response was overwhelmingly against the idea. Most of the sentiments were the same. When you purchase a ticket, you understand the risks of sitting in that seat. Pay attention, and get off your smartphones.
But players don't want to see fans get injured, especially if it's from a ball off their bat.