Target Field remains one of the best ballparks in all of baseball.  It's a terrific atmosphere and an intimate setting in terms of how close the fans can get to the game.  With that in mind, the Minnesota Twins are taking additional steps in 2018 to protect fans from getting hit by baseballs and bats.

Back in 2016, the Twins extended fan safety netting from the area immediately behind home plate to the outer edges of each dugout.  This added protection from foul balls which can hit the stands at damaging speeds.

Now, the Twins have announced that  prior to the start of the 2018 season, they will raise the height of the existing protective netting above the dugouts from seven feet to approximately nine feet.  Additionally, the Twins will extend the netting beyond the dugouts down both foul lines covering the entire Dugout Box seating area (Sections 1-17).

I'm a huge baseball fan and love going to Target Field.  While I wasn't originally a fan of extending the netting, I got used to it and even appreciated it as I brought my kids to more games.  As we see more people seriously injured by baseballs laced into the stands, I have no problem with today's announcement.

The Twins also stated that  all protective netting at Target Field will be crafted using state-of-the-art technology, with thin strands and a knotless intersection to deliver a minimally obtrusive viewing experience.  Additionally, the new netting will be composed of a combination of green hues to allow the netting to blend with the playing field and provide greater visibility.

They will also increase communication to fans at the game, warning them about the dangers of batted balls and the occasional bat launched into stands.

When you go to a game, especially with kids, make sure to keep your eye on the action on the field at all times and bring a glove.

 

 

More From B105