The threat of innocent people being harmed in unpredictable fashion has forced Major League Baseball to implement a plan to use metal detectors at every big league ballpark beginning next season.
According to reports, every fan that attends an MLB game next season will have to pass through a metal detector before entering a stadium.
“It’s the reality, unfortunately, of this world,” MLB security director John Skinner said. “Ultimately, it will happen.”
Three people died and more than 260 were injured during the Boston Marathan bombings in April. It’s a prime example of unexpected terror that could happen at any crowded sporting event.
The NFL and NBA already use metal detectors at stadium and arena gates.
The NFL boosted security measures even further this season with a new bag policy. Fans are no longer allowed to carry bags or purses into stadiums unless they are see-through or the approximate size of an adult hand.
The Oakland Athletics started using metal detectors in a game against the Minnesota Twins in mid-September.
MLB will make a presentation to all 30 teams before the start of Spring Training to add details to the screening requirements.
