The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Call for more nets after child struck by ball
Indians’ Lindor sets season homer mark for switch-hitting SS.
Wednesday’s Yankees-Twins game at Yankee Stadium came to a screeching halt when a foul ball traveling more than 100 mph struck a child in the stands.
The child received first aid at the stadium and was transported to an area hospital for further treatment. The shocking accident has also re-opened the discussion on whether MLB fields should expand netting to protect more attendees from stray balls.
Players and fans alike had a lot to say on social media in response to the accident, with the overwhelming opinion the protective netting should be expanded for safety.
Earlier this year, New York City Councilman Rafael L. Espinal Jr. introduced a bill calling for the extension of protective netting from home plate to the foul poles in any ballpark with 5,000 or more seating capacity.
“Either one, you don’t bring kids down there, or number two, every stadium needs to have nets,” said Twins second baseman Brian Dozier in a postgame interview. “I don’t care about the view of a fan or what — it’s all about safety.”
Todd Frazier, who hit the ball which struck the child agreed.
“I think the netting should be up. I think every stadium should have it, but we’re not at that point yet,” Frazier said. “Hopefully, they’ll take a look at this and they’ll figure something out.”
Indians: Shortstop Francisco Lindor’s two-run home run in the seventh inning of Cleveland’s 6-5 win late Wednesday at the Angels was his 31st of the season, breaking the home run record for a switch-hitting shortstop that he previously shared with Jimmy Rollins (2007) and Jose Valentin (2004).
“It’s an honor, a blessing, a privilege,” Lindor said. “I’m blessed to play this game. To be named along all those great shortstops that played the game as switch-hitters, it’s something special.”
“When you have talent, the moment’s not too big for you,” Cleveland manager Terry Francona said. “I know we feel good when he comes up.”
Dodgers: After Los Angeles’ 5-4 victory Thursday afternoon in Philadelphia, manager Dave Roberts announced that righthander Kenta Maeda (12-6, 4.25 ERA) made his final start of the season. Maeda, who threw three innings and 60 pitches Thursday, will move into his role in the bullpen to get ready for his postseason responsibilities. “From here forward, we see him as a weapon in the bullpen,” Roberts said. “He’s done it in the past and has really thrived.” ...
All-Star third baseman Justin Turner left Thursday’s game at Philadelphia after being hit by a pitch in the right hand in the first inning.
Team officials announced Turner had a bruised right thumb. X-rays were negative and he was listed as dayto-day. Turner is hitting a team-leading .321 with 21 home runs and 70 RBIs.
Orioles: Left-handed closer Zach Britton (15 saves) may be shut down for the season. He’s going to get a stem-cell injection in his left knee, and it probably would be wise not to test him again in a season that’s gone south.