J.J. Hardy is creating a bit of a stir with his latest backyard project: a miniature baseball field. The former MLB All-Star’s plans have drawn the ire of some of his neighbors in Chandler, Arizona, who say the field is an eyesore and a nuisance.
Hardy’s field reportedly includes a 20-foot backstop and fencing, which some neighbors believe is excessive and could lead to stray balls flying into their yards. They’ve also complained that the construction has been disruptive.
“Everybody has a right to enjoy their yard, but this is something that is beyond what is reasonable to expect your neighbors to tolerate. I didn’t sign up to live next to a baseball field. It’s like a commercial, like living next to Top Golf, you know, ”told one neighbor to KPHO.
Image Credit: AZ Family
The neighbor named Pam Lang who filed a complaint with Maricopa County added:
“There’s an inherent unfairness to this, an injustice because he can do whatever he wants because it’s a county island, and I can’t. I don’t have a recourse because I am bound by all these rules in this HOA. It’s very disappointing and frustrating that all I can do is file a complaint and hope that somebody in the county feels like listening to me.”
According to reports, J.J. Hardy has until April 22 to file the proper permits with Maricopa County. If he doesn’t meet that deadline, county officials have said he might have to take down some parts of the already constructed field.
J.J. Hardy’s 13-year Major League Baseball career was defined by a blend of elite defense and solid hitting. Hardy’s calling card was his glove. He was a master at shortstop, winning three Gold Glove Awards (2007, 2012, 2013). He earned him selection to the MLB All-Star Game twice, in 2007 and 2012. Plus, over his career, Hardy slashed .256 batting average. He also displayed decent on-base skills with a .305 on-base percentage and 188 career home runs. He drove in 688 runs throughout his career.
