With several games postponed this weekend, MLB will need to reschedule contests at some point to fit in its condensed 60-game schedule. In an effort not to exhaust players from squeezing in makeup games, MLB will allow for seven-inning doubleheaders effective Saturday.
The MLB Players’ Association joined the MLB in making Friday’s announcement.
“Given the frequency of doubleheaders, the effects of doubleheaders on rosters, and the need to reschedule games due to dynamic circumstances, both the Clubs and the Players have determined that this step promotes player health and safety,” MLB and the MLBPA said in a joint statement.
If games as part of a doubleheader are tied after seven innings, MLB’s new extra inning rule of placing a base runner at second base will be in effect.
Seven-inning twin bills are common in the minors and other levels of baseball.
An onslaught of doubleheaders may be necessary this season given that just one week into the coronavirus-shortened season, both the Marlins and Cardinals have dealt with multiple COVID-19 cases forcing the postponements. The Marlins have not played since last Sunday and are not scheduled to return to play until Tuesday.
The outbreak involving the Marlins also forced the Phillies to postpone four of their games this week. A scheduled contest between the Brewers and Cardinals was postponed for tonight.
