Baseball has been a beloved game in the United States for generations, and one of the most beloved aspects of the game is the number of innings a game will go. But does baseball go 7 or 9 innings? The answer to that question is not as straightforward as one might think.
History of Baseball Innings
The original game of baseball involved nine innings, and this was the standard for the sport for many years. The game was played with nine innings until the early 1900s, when a new rule was introduced that allowed for shorter games. This rule would allow for games to finish after seven innings if the home team was leading. This rule was soon adopted by the major leagues, and seven inning games became the norm.
Advantages and Disadvantages of 7 and 9 Innings
There are advantages and disadvantages to both seven and nine inning games. One advantage of seven inning games is that they are shorter, which means they can be completed in a shorter amount of time. This is beneficial for both players and fans, as it allows for games to be completed in a reasonable amount of time. Additionally, seven inning games tend to be more exciting and closer than nine inning games, since the home team can win the game in the bottom of the seventh inning if they are leading.
However, there are also some drawbacks to seven inning games. One is that teams can be at a disadvantage if the score is close and the home team is leading heading into the bottom of the seventh inning. If the home team scores a run in the bottom of the seventh, the game is over and the visiting team has no chance to respond. Additionally, some fans may find seven inning games to be too short, as they may not have enough time to enjoy the game.
Nine inning games have their own benefits and drawbacks. One benefit is that the game is more evenly balanced, as teams have an equal opportunity to score in the ninth inning if the game is close. Additionally, the game is longer, which gives fans more time to enjoy the game and the atmosphere.
However, one of the drawbacks of nine inning games is that they can take a long time to complete. This can be an issue for fans who want to get home at a reasonable hour, as well as for players who may get tired after playing for so long. Additionally, nine inning games can be less exciting than seven inning games, as the game is often decided in the late innings.
Conclusion
So, does baseball go 7 or 9 innings? The answer to that question is that it depends on the situation. Seven inning games are the norm in most leagues, but there are still some leagues that play nine inning games. Ultimately, the number of innings a game will go is up to the league and the teams involved.