Perfect Game Field in compliance with new Fan Safety Recommendations

Cedar Rapids, IA - The Cedar Rapids Kernels are pleased to announce that Perfect Game Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium is in compliance with the new Fan Safety Recommendations announced by Major League Baseball at the Baseball Winter Meetings last week in Nashville.

These recommendations are aimed at enhancing the safety of fans attending MLB and MiLB baseball games while preserving the interactive elements that are integral to the baseball fan experience.

Perfect Game Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium (built in 2002) already has in place the recommended protective netting that shields fans from line-drive foul balls at field level seats between the dugouts and within 70 feet on home plate. The Kernels will also be upgrading their stadium signage and public safety videos warning fans about the hazards of foul balls, bats and other items of the game that can leave the field and enter the stands during the course of the game.

MLB Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr. said: "Major League Baseball prides itself on providing fans in our ballparks with unparalleled proximity and access to our players and the game taking place on the field. At the same time, it is important that fans have the option to sit behind protective netting or in other areas of the ballpark where foul balls and bats are less likely to enter. This recommendation attempts to balance the need for an adequate number of seating options with our desire to preserve the interactive pre-game and in-game fan experience that often centers around the dugouts, where fans can catch foul balls, see their favorite players up close and, if they are lucky, catch a tossed ball or other souvenir."

The Kernels open the 2016 Midwest League season at Perfect Game Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium on Thursday, April 7th against the Quad Cities River Bandits. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 PM.

Season ticket packages for the 2016 season are on sale now by calling the Kernels at (319) 896-7622 or email Sammy Brzostowksi at [email protected]. Individual game tickets for the 2016 season go on sale Monday, March 14th at 10 AM.