FORT MYERS, Fla. Fans going to Red Sox spring training games at JetBlue Park this year will have to pass through a metal detector, the team said Tuesday.
The move is part of a Major League Baseball initiative to improve security. MLB began requiring metal detection at all regular season Major League facilities in 2015.
Fans will be asked to remove cell phones, cameras and other large metal objects before walking through the metal detectors, but they won’t have to remove smaller objects, such as wallets, coins, keys, jewelry, eyeglasses, shoes and belts.
Bags brought into the ballpark can’t be larger than 16 inches by 16 inches by 8 inches and are subject to search.
“This procedure, which results from MLB’s continuing work with the Department of Homeland Security to standardize security practices, will be in addition to bag checks that are now uniform throughout MLB games as well,” said Katie Haas, vice president of Florida business operations for the Red Sox.
The gates at Fenway South will open two hours before game time beginning Feb. 23 for the team’s home opener. Fans are asked to arrive early to allow extra time for screenings.
Special accommodations will be made for those needing extra assistance, the team said.
