Lovely light before the storm. But what is this small fence up in the air? And why are there two of them? I’m not a ball player and I can’t imagine what role they play in the game. [photo]
West Park
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Those are foul poles. Tells officials and players whether a ball is fair or foul. Lines on the field extend into the air (the “fence”)in case of a fly ball.
Are they usually made like a mini fence? Thanks for the explanation. I’ve never noticed them at any other ball field. Which is why it is a good thing to stop and watch.
You always see them in parks where professional baseball is played, they are less common where recreational ball is played.
And yes, they are always made like a mini-fence. Cf this one in Comerica Park in Detroit.
My understanding is that the little net it there so that the ump can see it it move when the ball hits it if it’s just barely a foul ball. Otherwise the fair/foul call could be more difficult (and argued over). Not sure why it doesn’t extend down to the top of the outfield fence.
I thought it was for those West Park jumping jack rabbits.