Citi Field gets new dimensions – MLB Update
In an attempt to facilitate offense, the New York Mets announced a mega plan to alter Citi Field in time for the next season. The Mets have an aggressive mind-set, but the dimensions of the ballpark did not facilitate the batters since it became functional
in 2009.
The new plan will primarily focus on reducing the left-field wall, which was an obstruction for the right-handed batters. Furthermore, it will considerably reduce the length of out-field in general and the fence encapsulating out-field will be painted blue
to represent the Mets.
Expressing his views on the renovation of the ballpark, Mets’ general manager Sandy Alderson stated that the fans are attracted by high-scoring games and the modifications will make it more entertaining for the fans and players alike.
Alderson added that the decision of players was factored into the plan, but it is not being done to favour any particular player. He added that the management does not want to give an impression that this is being done to compliment the likes of David Wright
and other sluggers.
Alderson pointed out that if the first three seasons are to be analysed, the Mets ended up hitting 81 less homers than they would have if the dimensions had been what they will be after the changes. He continued that the other team, playing at Citi Field,
would have amassed 70 more home-runs and thus the changes will be more neutral.
Wright has lost his hitting power playing at Citi Field and his numbers of 10, 29 and 14 home-runs over the last three seasons is a valuable evidence of that. Welcoming the change, Wright said, “You never really know how a park plays until you play there.
But you tell a hitter that the ballpark is getting smaller, they are obviously happy.”
Mets’ pitching coach Dan Warthen was pleased with the idea and believes that it will make the game more interesting. Warthen opined that the pitchers concentrate better in smaller ballparks and thus the quality of pitching will improve. The pitching coach
had early shown concern that the bull-pen had become overly relaxed due to extensive out-fields, but given the changes, he believes that the team will show improvement in the next season.
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