What is the definition of a 'double' in baseball?

In baseball, a double occurs when a batter successfully hits a pitched ball and reaches second base safely. This achievement must happen without the benefit of a defensive error by a fielder or another runner being put out on a fielder's choice, meaning the batter earned the two bases directly from their hit.

What are some alternative terms used to refer to a double in baseball?

A double in baseball is sometimes referred to as a 'two-bagger' or a 'two-base hit,' indicating that the batter advanced two bases on the play.

How is a double denoted for statistical and scorekeeping purposes in baseball?

For statistical and scorekeeping purposes in baseball, a double is officially denoted by the abbreviation '2B.' This notation helps track a player's performance and contributes to various offensive metrics.

What are the typical characteristics of a batted ball that results in a double?

A double is typically a ball that is hit well into the outfield, often finding the 'gap' between the center fielder and one of the corner outfielders. It can also be a ball that bounces off the outfield wall and remains in play, or one that is hit along one of the two foul lines, allowing the batter enough time to reach second base.

What skills are beneficial for a batter to hit many doubles?

To consistently hit many doubles, a batter needs a combination of decent hitting skill and power. Additionally, good running speed is helpful to beat an outfield throw, and a high baseball IQ, along with the ability to slide effectively, can allow a batter to turn a single into an extra-base hit like a double.

How do doubles typically contribute to scoring runs in a baseball game?

Doubles are often instrumental in driving in runs, as they can advance runners from third base, second base, and sometimes even from first base, bringing them home to score.

How are doubles factored into the calculation of total bases and slugging percentages?

When calculating total bases and slugging percentages, a double is assigned a value of two. This means it contributes more to a player's offensive production than a single, but less than a triple or home run.

Are there any common nicknames for renowned doubles hitters?

Yes, renowned doubles hitters occasionally earn nicknames that reflect their ability to hit doubles. Examples include 'Mitchy Two Bags' for Mitch Moreland and 'Tony Two Bags' for Anthony Rendon.

What is a 'ground rule double' in baseball?

A ground rule double is a two-base hit that is awarded by an umpire when a fairly batted ball leaves the field of play due to specific circumstances, such as bouncing over an outfield fence. In such cases, the batter is automatically awarded second base, and any runners on base advance two bases from their position at the time of the pitch.

What was the historical treatment of hits that bounced out of play before 1931?

Prior to 1931, hits that bounced fairly out of play were not considered ground rule doubles but were instead counted as home runs. This rule change in 1931 altered how such plays were scored.

Can you provide an example of a specific ground rule double situation?

An example of a specific ground rule double situation occurs at Chicago's Wrigley Field, where a batted ball that becomes lost in the vines on the outfield bleacher wall is automatically awarded as a ground rule double.

What unusual ground rule double occurred at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome?

At the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis in 1984, Dave Kingman was awarded a ground rule double when a ball he hit became stuck in the roof. This was notable because, at the time, no specific ground rule existed for that particular situation at the Metrodome.

Who holds the Major League Baseball record for the most career doubles?

Tris Speaker holds the all-time Major League Baseball record for the most career doubles, with a total of 792 doubles during his career from 1907 to 1928.

Who are the top 5 career doubles hitters in Major League Baseball history?

The top five career doubles hitters in Major League Baseball history are Tris Speaker with 792, Pete Rose with 746, Stan Musial with 725, Ty Cobb with 724, and Albert Pujols with 684.

Which player has the most career doubles in postseason history?

Derek Jeter holds the record for the most career doubles in postseason history, accumulating 32 doubles during his playoff appearances.

Which players have achieved 50 or more doubles in a season at least three times in Major League history?

Only five players in Major League history have hit 50 or more doubles in a season at least three times: Tris Speaker (1912, 1920–21, 1923, 1926), Paul Waner (1928, 1932, 1936), Stan Musial (1944, 1946, 1953), Brian Roberts (2004, 2008–09), and Albert Pujols (2003–04, 2012).

Who holds the record for the most doubles in a single Major League Baseball season?

Earl Webb holds the record for the most doubles in a single Major League Baseball season, hitting 67 doubles in 1931.

Which players are tied for the second-highest number of doubles in a single MLB season?

George Burns (1926) and Joe Medwick (1936) are tied for the second-highest number of doubles in a single MLB season, both having hit 64 doubles.

Who are the top 5 individual season leaders for doubles in MLB history?

The top five individual season leaders for doubles in MLB history are Earl Webb (67 in 1931), George Burns (64 in 1926), Joe Medwick (64 in 1936), Hank Greenberg (63 in 1934), and Paul Waner (62 in 1932).

Which players have hit eight doubles in a single postseason?

Three players have hit eight doubles in a single postseason: Albert Pujols (2011), David Freese (2011), and Ben Zobrist (2015).

What is the record for the most doubles hit by a player in a single major league game?

The record for the most doubles hit by a player in a single major league game is four. This achievement has occurred over 40 times, with the most recent instance by Kyle Farmer of the Cincinnati Reds on April 27, 2022.

Which two players have hit four doubles in a single game twice in their careers?

Only two players, Billy Werber and Albert Belle, have achieved the feat of hitting four doubles in a single major league game twice in their careers.

Who are the only players to have hit four doubles in interleague play?

Johnny Damon and Shannon Stewart are the only players to have hit four doubles in interleague play, both accomplishing this in separate games on July 18, 2000.

Which team holds the record for the most doubles in a single game?

The St. Louis Cardinals hold the record for the most doubles by a team in one game, hitting 13 doubles in a 17–13 victory over the Chicago Cubs on July 12, 1931, during the second game of a doubleheader.

Who is the only player to hit four doubles in a World Series game?

Frank Isbell of the Chicago White Sox is the only player to have hit four doubles in a World Series game, achieving this in Game 5 of the 1906 World Series.

Who was the first player to hit three doubles in his first three World Series plate appearances?

Freddy Sanchez was the first player to hit three doubles in his first three World Series plate appearances, doing so in Game 1 of the 2010 World Series.

What happened with Freddy Sanchez's fourth potential double in the 2010 World Series?

Later in Game 1 of the 2010 World Series, Freddy Sanchez reached second base on a hit that was initially scored as a double, which would have tied the World Series and postseason records. However, the play was later changed to a single and an error, meaning it did not count as his fourth double.

Which player has twice hit three doubles in a postseason game?

Albert Pujols is the sole player to have twice hit three doubles in a postseason game, accomplishing this on both occasions during the 2011 postseason.

What is the record for the most doubles hit in a postseason game by both teams combined?

The record for the most doubles hit in a postseason game by both teams combined is 13, achieved by the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox in Game 3 of the 2004 ALCS.

How many postseason games have ended with a walk-off double, and who hit the most recent one?

There have been 13 postseason games that concluded with a walk-off double. The most recent was hit by Carlos Correa of the Houston Astros in Game 2 of the 2017 ALCS.

Which World Series were won by a game-ending RBI double?

The 1924 and 1929 World Series were both decided by a game-ending RBI double, providing dramatic conclusions to those championship series.

How many players have hit two doubles in a Major League Baseball All-Star Game, and who was the most recent?

Nine players have hit two doubles in a Major League Baseball All-Star Game. The most recent player to achieve this was Jonathan Lucroy in the 2014 edition of the game.

Who holds the record for hitting a double in the most consecutive games?

Bo Bichette set a Major League Baseball record by hitting a double in nine consecutive games in 2019.

Which pitcher gave up the most doubles in a single MLB game?

Earl Whitehill of the Washington Senators holds the record for giving up the most doubles in a single MLB game, as the Detroit Tigers hit 10 doubles against him on July 10, 1935.

Who holds the single-season record for most doubles conceded by a pitcher?

Robin Roberts holds the single-season record for the most doubles conceded by a pitcher, having allowed 70 doubles in 1953.

Which pitcher holds the career record for the most doubles allowed?

Jamie Moyer holds the career record for the most doubles allowed by a pitcher, with a total of 820 doubles conceded over his career.

What other types of hits are there in baseball besides a double?

In addition to a double, other types of hits in baseball include a single (one base), a triple (three bases), and a home run (four bases, typically clearing the outfield fence).

What is the significance of the image showing Ryan McBroom?

The image depicts Ryan McBroom hitting a pitch for a double in 2021, serving as a visual example of the baseball play being described.

What is the significance of the image of Tris Speaker?

The image features Tris Speaker, a player who played from 1907 to 1928 and holds the Major League Baseball record for the most career doubles, with 792.

What is the significance of the image of Hank Greenberg?

The image shows Hank Greenberg, a Hall of Famer and two-time MVP, who is also listed among the top individual season leaders for doubles, having hit 63 in 1934.

Double Baseball Wiki: The Art of the Two-Bagger: A Deep Dive into Baseball's Double

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Introduction

Defining the Double

In the intricate game of baseball, a double, often colloquially termed a "two-bagger" or "two-base hit," represents a fundamental offensive achievement. It occurs when a batter successfully strikes a pitched ball and advances safely to second base, without the assistance of a fielding error by the opposing team or a strategic out on another runner via a fielder's choice. This distinct type of hit is statistically denoted as 2B and stands alongside the single, triple, and home run as a core component of a batter's offensive contribution.

Statistical Significance

The double holds considerable statistical weight in baseball analytics. When calculating a player's total bases and slugging percentage, each double is assigned a value of two, reflecting its superior offensive impact compared to a single. This metric is crucial for evaluating a batter's power and ability to advance runners, as doubles frequently drive in runs from third base, second base, and occasionally even from first base, significantly influencing game outcomes.

Hitting Mechanics & Strategy

The Art of Placement

Achieving a double typically requires a precisely struck ball that penetrates the outfield. Common scenarios include a ball hit into the "gap" between the center fielder and either of the corner outfielders, a powerful drive that bounces off the outfield wall and remains in play, or a well-placed hit down one of the two foul lines. These trajectories exploit the defensive alignment, allowing the batter sufficient time to reach second base before the ball can be retrieved and thrown back to the infield.

Player Attributes

To consistently hit doubles, a batter must possess a combination of refined hitting skill and adequate power. Beyond the initial contact, proficient base running is also a critical factor. Players with a high baseball IQ and the ability to execute effective slides can often transform what might otherwise be a single into an extra-base hit, maximizing their offensive output and putting themselves in scoring position. This blend of power, precision, and speed defines a potent double-hitter.

Defensive Countermeasures

Teams frequently employ a "no doubles" defensive strategy, particularly in late-game situations when holding a narrow lead. This alignment is designed to prevent extra-base hits and minimize scoring opportunities. It involves outfielders playing deeper than usual to intercept fly balls before they land behind them, and corner infielders positioning themselves closer to the foul lines to prevent ground balls from rolling far into the outfield corners. This strategic deployment aims to limit the offensive impact of a well-struck ball to a single, if any hit at all.

Special Rules

The Ground Rule Double

A unique instance in baseball is the ground rule double, a two-base hit awarded by an umpire under specific circumstances. This occurs when a fairly batted ball leaves the field of play by bouncing over an outfield fence or into a designated out-of-play area. In such cases, the batter is automatically awarded second base, and any runners on base advance two bases from their position at the time of the pitch. Historically, prior to 1931, such hits were often counted as home runs, highlighting an evolution in baseball's rule interpretations.

Beyond the standard bounce-out-of-play scenario, ground rule doubles can also be awarded for specific situations defined by a ballpark's unique ground rules. Notable examples include:

At Chicago's Wrigley Field, a batted ball becoming lost in the ivy-covered outfield wall results in a ground rule double.
In a 1984 game at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis, Dave Kingman was awarded a ground rule double when his hit became stuck in the stadium's roof, even though a specific rule for this situation did not formally exist at the time. This demonstrates the umpire's discretion in interpreting unusual game conditions.

Major League Records

Career Leaders

The pursuit of doubles has defined the careers of many legendary hitters. Tris Speaker holds the all-time Major League Baseball record with an astounding 792 career doubles, a testament to his consistent ability to hit for extra bases. Other notable players who rank among the top 10 career doubles hitters include Pete Rose (746), Stan Musial (725), and Ty Cobb (724), showcasing a blend of power and longevity. In postseason history, Derek Jeter leads all players with 32 career doubles, underscoring his clutch hitting in critical moments.

Top 10 Major League Baseball Career Doubles Leaders:

Tris Speaker – 792
Pete Rose – 746
Stan Musial – 725
Ty Cobb – 724
Albert Pujols – 684
Craig Biggio – 668
George Brett – 665
Nap Lajoie – 657
Carl Yastrzemski – 646
Honus Wagner – 640

Single Season & Postseason Feats

Achieving a high number of doubles in a single season requires exceptional hitting prowess. Only five players in Major League history have recorded 50 or more doubles in at least three separate seasons: Tris Speaker, Paul Waner, Stan Musial, Brian Roberts, and Albert Pujols. The single-season record belongs to Earl Webb, who hit 67 doubles in 1931. In postseason play, Albert Pujols and David Freese (both 2011), and Ben Zobrist (2015) share the record for most doubles in a single postseason with eight each.

Top Single Season Doubles Leaders:

Earl Webb (1931) – 67
George Burns (1926) – 64
Joe Medwick (1936) – 64
Hank Greenberg (1934) – 63
Paul Waner (1932) – 62
Charlie Gehringer (1936) – 60

Game & Consecutive Records

Remarkable performances in individual games and streaks also highlight the impact of the double. The record for most doubles hit by a player in a single Major League game is four, a feat accomplished over 40 times, with Kyle Farmer being the most recent in April 2022. Only Billy Werber and Albert Belle have achieved this twice. Frank Isbell holds the World Series record with four doubles in Game 5 of the 1906 World Series. For consecutive games, Bo Bichette set a record in 2019 by hitting a double in nine straight games.

Notable Game and Postseason Double Records:

Most Doubles in a Single Game (Player): Four, achieved by over 40 players (e.g., Kyle Farmer, Billy Werber, Albert Belle).
Most Doubles in Interleague Play (Player): Four, by Johnny Damon and Shannon Stewart (both July 18, 2000).
Most Doubles by a Team in a Single Game: 13, by the St. Louis Cardinals (July 12, 1931).
World Series Record (Player): Frank Isbell (4 doubles in Game 5, 1906 World Series).
Most Doubles in a Postseason Game (Player): Three, achieved multiple times, with Albert Pujols doing it twice in the 2011 postseason.
Most Doubles in a Postseason Game (Both Teams): 13, by the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox (Game 3, 2004 ALCS).
Walk-off Doubles in Postseason: 13 instances, most recently by Carlos Correa (Game 2, 2017 ALCS). The 1924 and 1929 World Series were both won by game-ending RBI doubles.
All-Star Game Doubles: Nine players have hit two doubles in an All-Star Game, Jonathan Lucroy being the most recent (2014).

Pitching & Doubles Conceded

The Pitcher's Challenge

While batters strive for doubles, pitchers aim to prevent them. Conceding a double can be a significant setback, often leading to runs scored. Major League Baseball records track pitchers who have given up the most doubles, highlighting the challenges faced on the mound. Earl Whitehill of the Washington Senators holds the record for most doubles allowed in a single game, with the Detroit Tigers hitting 10 against him in 1935.

Season and Career Totals

Over the course of a season or career, the number of doubles a pitcher allows can accumulate significantly. Robin Roberts holds the single-season record for doubles conceded, giving up 70 in 1953. In terms of career longevity and exposure, Jamie Moyer holds the all-time record for doubles allowed, with a total of 820 over his extensive career. These statistics underscore the sustained pressure pitchers face to keep the ball in the park and prevent extra-base hits.

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The Art of the Two-Bagger

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Introduction ℹ️

⚾ Defining the Double

📊 Statistical Significance

Hitting Mechanics & Strategy ⚙️

🎯 The Art of Placement

🏃 Player Attributes

🛡️ Defensive Countermeasures

Special Rules 📜

⚖️ The Ground Rule Double

Major League Records 🏆

🌟 Career Leaders

Top 10 Major League Baseball Career Doubles Leaders:

🗓️ Single Season & Postseason Feats

Top Single Season Doubles Leaders:

🏟️ Game & Consecutive Records

Notable Game and Postseason Double Records:

Pitching & Doubles Conceded 📉

🚫 The Pitcher's Challenge

📈 Season and Career Totals

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

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Feedback & Support 👍

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction

Defining the Double

Statistical Significance

Hitting Mechanics & Strategy

The Art of Placement

Player Attributes

Defensive Countermeasures

Special Rules

The Ground Rule Double

Major League Records

Career Leaders

Single Season & Postseason Feats

Game & Consecutive Records

Pitching & Doubles Conceded

The Pitcher's Challenge

Season and Career Totals

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice