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All 30 MLB stadiums to expand netting behind home plate by opening day

In this May 14, 2013, file photo, the Cincinnati Reds take batting practice at Marlins Park before a baseball game against the Miami Marlins in Miami. A person familiar with the decision says the Marlins have been awarded the 2017 All-Star Game, and an announcement by baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred is planned for this week at the team’s ballpark. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky, File)
In this May 14, 2013, file photo, the Cincinnati Reds take batting practice at Marlins Park before a baseball game against the Miami Marlins in Miami. A person familiar with the decision says the Marlins have been awarded the 2017 All-Star Game, and an announcement by baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred is planned for this week at the team’s ballpark. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky, File)
By Juliakate E Culpepper
Feb 1, 2018

All Major League Baseball parks will expand netting behind home plate to reach the far end of each dugout by opening day, the Associated Press reported Thursday.

The change was implemented after several incidents of fans being hit by foul balls or bats in the areas where netting is not present over the past few seasons.

The MLB recommended expanding nets in December 2015 after several injuries to fans.

The netting at the Atlanta Braves' SunTrust Park already meets these requirements.

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