The Cleveland Indians have announced plans to extend protective netting at Progressive Field, as they will run netting farther down the foul lines in time for the 2020 season.
The changes, which the Indians said were made in consultation with MLB and architects to asses the best design within the ballpark’s configuration, are as follows:
• Extended netting: The netting will now be extended to cover the area from section 128 in the right-field corner to section 174 in the left-field corner.
• Height increased and canopy removed: The Indians have also extended the height of the netting from 23 feet to 33 feet and have removed the existing canopy. This will enable foul balls to once again reach the fans in the lower bowl.
Players and fans will still be able to take part in pregame autographs through the netting.
“Along with 29 other MLB teams, we will be extending our netting to enhance the safety measures in place to protect our fans at Progressive Field,” said vice president, ballpark operations Jim Folk. “We are looking to maximize safety while minimizing obstructing views and will be utilizing the same netting material that we have had recent success with in the ballpark.”
Rendering of protective netting courtesy Cleveland Indians.
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