Rich Hill Called MLB to Lobby for Increased Netting

Extended netting in MLB has been a topic of conversation in recent years after some scary moments with fans young and old getting hit by screaming foul balls.

And some MLB players are just as fed up as a vocal part of the fanbase.

Recent events have led Los Angeles Dodgers veteran starter Rich Hill to call the league office on Tuesday to lobby for extended netting in all ballparks.

"It’s such a little investment to protect a life," Hill said, according to Jorge Castillo of the Los Angeles Times. "Everybody puts their seat belt on when they get in a car. Times change. A lot of things have changed to indicate in these circumstances that we’re in a different time. That’s it. Period. And I don’t think anybody will be upset by that."

Hill's talk with MLB comes after the Chicago White Sox announced that they're going to extend the netting down the lines all the way to the foul poles at Guaranteed Rate Field.

"One more fan having a severe injury or, in a really unfortunate situation, a death, is something that is unacceptable," Hill explained. "You come to the ballpark for a reprieve and to take a break from the hectic schedule of life to enjoy watching us go out there and play. And you want to feel comfortable and safe."

I don't know if all MLB parks should do what the White Sox are planning to do, but it's clear that something needs to happen and the fans need to be better protected. We shouldn't wait for a kid or another fan to pass away before teams get drastic.