Albert Almora Jr. hopes that there is never another incident like the one that he was at the center of on Wednesday night. (Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports)
Albert Almora Jr. hopes that there is never another incident like the one that he was at the center of on Wednesday night. (Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports)

WATCH: Almora discusses foul-ball incident, shares his opinion on expansion of protective netting


by - Senior Writer -

Speaking with reporters for the first time since the fateful night when he hit a foul ball that struck a little girl sitting in the stands, Chicago Cubs center fielder Albert Almora Jr. was still rather subdued on Friday afternoon. Wednesday's incident left Almora quite emotional during and after the game, generating a widespread discussion about protective netting at MLB parks.

"I hope this never happens again," Almora said in his locker-room media session. "This has been something that I'll never forget."

Almora made it clear in his postgame remarks on Wednesday that he hoped to establish a relationship with the family of the little girl, who is recovering and doing well, and told reporters on Friday that he still plans to reach out in the near future. Right now, the family members are requesting privacy during the emotional time, but Almora hopes to connect with them when the time is right.

“When they’re ready," Almora said, " I’ll do whatever I can to put a smile on that little girl's face.”

A father to two young boys, Almora was especially devastated by the sad occurrence, and he told the press that he was deeply touched by how many people reached out to him to offer support while he was struggling to cope with the incident. However, upon being asked about his emotional and mental state, Almora pointed out that the little girl's well-being is still the primary concern.

“It's tough to answer these questions because I'm not the one hurt," Almora said. "People are praying for me, but I'm healthy. My mind's OK. I'm OK. And it's thanks to my teammates and family.“

When asked to share his opinion on MLB potentially expanding protective netting down the foul lines in order to prevent horrible situations like the one that took place on Wednesday from unfolding, Almora revealed that he is fully in favor. The outfielder said that no family should have to worry about safety concerns pertaining to their children when opting to attend a big-league game and was adamant that the league office should enact any and all safety measures that will make a fan being hit by a foul ball virtually impossible.

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