New York Mets: Francisco Lindor fan of seven inning doubleheaders

Major League Baseball has changed dramatically in the wake of the pandemic. Due to a number of rules put into place, the game has had more changes in the past year than at almost any point in history. Some of these rules have caught the ire of fans and players alike. However, not every change has been considered a negative by the players, with New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor voicing his support of one of those changes.

In particular, Lindor is a fan of the seven inning doubleheaders. By cutting those two innings from the end of the game, it saves wear and tear on the players.

New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor makes valid point about doubleheaders

It is clear that the players are not overly enthused with some of the changes that were unilaterally instituted by commissioner Rob Manfred. The ghost runner on second, his decision to police foreign substances on baseballs in the middle of the year, and other changes have been met with anger and frustration.

For the fans, the same anger and frustration is directed at the seven inning doubleheaders. The fans want to see those games last nine innings, especially as the league is refusing to recognize Madison Bumgarner‘s no hitter as being an official piece of history.

But for the players and teams, that particular rule change is actually beneficial. The players have less wear and tear on their bodies over the course of the 162 game schedule. It also helps to protect a bullpen, as those teams will need to use fewer relievers to get through the day.

The league and the Player’s Union appear to be heading to a contentious offseason as the Collective Bargaining Agreement is due to expire. There is a great deal of suspicion towards the owners from the players, and Manfred’s declarations have not helped. However, the seven inning doubleheader may be here to stay as that change may be beneficial to the players.

If New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor is any indication, the players enjoy the seven inning doubleheaders. Anything that alleviates wear and tear is welcome.