Security to Be Strong at Series

Fighter jets patrolling the skies and an increased police and FBI presence will be part of heightened security at Phoenix’s Bank One Ballpark during the World Series.

Because of the terrorist attacks, officials will be on high alert for the Fall Classic, which starts Saturday.

“Since Sept. 11, things have changed and we are seeing things in a different light,” Phoenix Fire Department spokesman Bob Khan said.

Security plans for a possible World Series have been in the works for months.

“We are prepared for any size crowd and any situation,” said Tony Morales, a detective with the Phoenix police department.

The department is tripling its security contingent at the games, but officials wouldn’t discuss specific numbers.

The air space over the ballpark will be restricted, as it has been since the attacks.

Air Force F-16s will deal “very quickly” with any potential violation of the restrictions, especially during the series, said Federal Aviation Administration spokesman Mike Fergus.

He said there won’t be any fighter jets specifically designated to fly over the ballpark during World Series games, but military aircraft will be over the city.

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San Francisco outfielder Barry Bonds was named player of the year by the Sporting News.

Bonds set a major-league record with 73 home runs, three more than the mark set in 1998 by Mark McGwire of the St. Louis Cardinals. Bonds, a top candidate to win his fourth National League most valuable player award, also hit .328, drove in 137 runs and broke Babe Ruth’s single-season record with 177 walks.