MLB Sees Decline in Doubles and Triples

Experts cite focus on exit velocity, defensive shifts, and smaller ballparks as factors behind the drop in extra-base hits

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Major League Baseball has seen a steady decline in doubles and triples over the past decade, with the number of doubles falling from 8,254 in 2016 to 7,745 in 2025, and triples dropping from 873 to just 628 over the same period. Experts attribute this trend to players prioritizing exit velocity and launch angle over simply hitting the ball into the gaps, as well as advanced defensive positioning and increasingly athletic outfielders making it harder to get extra-base hits. Some teams have also modified their stadiums to be more hitter-friendly by bringing in the fences, further contributing to the decline.

Why it matters

The decrease in doubles and triples is changing the dynamic of the game, as the focus shifts more towards home runs and singles. This could impact the overall excitement and strategy of baseball, as teams optimize for power and preventing extra-base hits rather than creating more action on the basepaths.

The details

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts believes players are prioritizing exit velocity and launch angle over simply hitting the ball through the infield or along the lines. Defensive shifts, with outfielders playing deeper to prevent extra-base hits, have also played a role, as has the evolution of stadium dimensions, with some teams bringing in the fences to increase home run totals. Additionally, today's more athletic outfielders are making it harder for balls to get past them, contributing to the decline in doubles and triples.

  • In 2016, there were 8,254 doubles and 873 triples hit in MLB.
  • By 2025, the number of doubles had decreased to 7,745, and triples had fallen to just 628.

The players

Dave Roberts

Manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Nolan Arenado

Arizona Diamondbacks player who highlighted how defensive alignment changes have impacted extra-base hits.

Terry Francona

Manager of the Cincinnati Reds who noted that no one is considering moving fences further back, contributing to the decline in extra-base hits.

Nico Hoerner

Chicago Cubs second baseman who points out that defensive shortcomings are no longer tolerated unless a player possesses an exceptional bat.

Andrew Benintendi

Chicago White Sox player who notes that fans still enjoy home runs and stolen base attempts, despite the decline in doubles and triples.

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What they’re saying

“The alignment defensive changes everything.”

— Nolan Arenado

“No one is considering moving fences further back, contributing to the decline in extra-base hits.”

— Terry Francona, Manager, Cincinnati Reds

“Defensive shortcomings are no longer tolerated unless a player possesses an exceptional bat.”

— Nico Hoerner, Second Baseman, Chicago Cubs

“Fans still enjoy home runs and stolen base attempts.”

— Andrew Benintendi, Player, Chicago White Sox

What’s next

Major League Baseball may explore further rule changes to encourage more action on the basepaths, such as limiting defensive shifts or adjusting ballpark dimensions, in an effort to reverse the decline in doubles and triples.

The takeaway

The shift away from doubles and triples in MLB represents a fundamental change in strategy and player development, as teams prioritize power and preventing extra-base hits over creating more action on the basepaths. While this may not make the game less exciting for some fans, it does signal a significant evolution in the way the sport is played at the highest level.