The Vanishing Double: Why Baseball is Evolving Beyond the Gap Shot
For decades, the crack of the bat sending a ball sailing into the outfield gap, resulting in a stand-up double, was a staple of baseball excitement. Now, those moments are becoming increasingly rare. Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts believes he knows why: players are prioritizing exit velocity and launch angle over simply hitting the ball through the infield or along the lines.
The Numbers Don’t Lie: A Decline in Extra-Base Hits
The trend is clear. According to Sportradar data, doubles have decreased from 8,254 in 2016 to 7,745 in 2025. Triples have seen an even steeper decline, falling from 873 in 2016 to just 628. Whereas home runs and singles have seen increases, the loss of doubles and triples is changing the dynamic of the game.
Defensive Shifts and the Modern Outfielder
One major factor is the evolution of defensive positioning. While shifts were somewhat limited by rule changes in 2023, outfielders are still playing deeper, sacrificing singles to prevent extra-base hits. Players now routinely carry small cards detailing hitter tendencies, allowing for precise positioning. As Roberts, a former major league outfielder, recalls, players used to play closer to the infield to prevent singles. Now, the focus is on preventing damage, leading to more space for potential doubles and triples – but also more athletic plays to prevent them.
Nolan Arenado of the Arizona Diamondbacks highlighted this shift, recalling a hard-hit single in 2022 that would have easily been a double just a few years prior. “The alignment defensive changes everything,” he said.
Stadium Dimensions and the Shrinking Ballpark
Ballpark dimensions are also playing a role. Teams like the New York Mets, Detroit Tigers, and Kansas City Royals have modified their stadiums in recent years, often bringing the fences closer to home plate to increase home run totals. Statcast rankings consistently demonstrate that Citi Field and Yankee Stadium are among the least favorable parks for doubles and triples.
Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona noted that no one is considering moving fences further back, contributing to the decline in extra-base hits.
The Rise of the Athlete: Defense is King
Today’s major league outfielders are simply more athletic than their predecessors. Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner points out that defensive shortcomings are no longer tolerated unless a player possesses an exceptional bat. So fewer players with defensive liabilities are making it to the majors, resulting in fewer balls getting past outfielders.
What Does This Indicate for the Future of Baseball?
The shift away from doubles and triples doesn’t necessarily mean the game is becoming less exciting. As Andrew Benintendi of the Chicago White Sox points out, fans still enjoy home runs and stolen base attempts. However, it does represent a fundamental change in strategy and player development.
Will We See a Reversal?
It’s unlikely. The emphasis on launch angle and exit velocity, coupled with advanced defensive positioning and increasingly athletic outfielders, is here to stay. Teams are optimizing for power and preventing extra-base hits, even if it means sacrificing some singles.
Potential Rule Changes to Encourage Action
Major League Baseball may explore further rule changes to encourage more action on the basepaths. While enlarging the bases after the 2023 rule changes initially increased stolen bases, it didn’t reverse the decline in doubles and triples. Future changes could focus on limiting defensive shifts even further or adjusting ballpark dimensions.
FAQ
Q: Why are doubles and triples becoming less common?
A: A combination of factors, including players prioritizing exit velocity and launch angle, advanced defensive positioning, and more athletic outfielders.
Q: Are MLB stadiums getting smaller?
A: Some teams are modifying their stadiums to be more hitter-friendly, often by bringing the fences closer to home plate.
Q: Will MLB produce more rule changes to address this trend?
A: It’s possible. MLB may explore further changes to encourage more action on the basepaths.
Did you know? The Los Angeles Dodgers have won the World Series in 2020, 2024, and 2025.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to defensive positioning when watching a game. You’ll notice how much more strategically outfielders are playing compared to even a decade ago.
What are your thoughts on the changing landscape of baseball? Share your opinions in the comments below!
