MLB reportedly considering stricter ballpark security measures in 2014

According to the Associated Press, Major League Baseball is planning to implement stricter ballpark security measures next year.

The only specific item mentioned is the addition of walk-through metal detectors.

“It’s the reality, unfortunately, of this world,” John Skinner, MLB’s security director is quoted as saying. “Ultimately, it will happen.”

The Baltimore Sun quotes another MLB official stating that no official decision has been made.

“We have been reviewing our security procedures for many months and we will issue a security bulletin in 2014 that will include practices and procedures that are responsive to the new security environment,” MLB spokesman Mike Teevan said. “Fan screening will be one of the subjects addressed. We are continuing to consult with our clubs, our experts and the Department of Homeland Security, and we expect to announce specific changes after some further off-season meetings.”

Walk-through metal detectors may actually be less annoying than waiting for a security official of the appropriate gender to do a pat down when the wand detectors fail to function, so I don’t really have an issue if MLB chooses to go that route.

But if MLB follows the NFL route of severely limiting what can be brought into a stadium, I’ll find myself reconsidering whether I need to go out to the ballpark at all. I’ve already reached the decision that I’d rather watch on TV than spend close to two hours traveling to Queens from New Jersey unless there’s a special occasion.

Something to keep in mind before you purchase your 2014 baseball tickets.