What Does ‘Double-header’ Mean?
A “double-header” is a term used (almost exclusively in baseball) when two teams play each other twice on the same day, back-to-back.
This usually happens when a previous game between the two teams was postponed (due to rain, for example) and needs to be made up.
How Double-Headers Work in Betting
This is the most important part to know: a double-header is NOT one long game. Sportsbooks treat it as two separate, individual games.
When you go to your betting app, you will see them listed as:
- Game 1 (e.g., Mets vs. Phillies)
- Game 2 (e.g., Mets vs. Phillies)
If you bet on the Mets, you must choose which game you are betting on. A bet on “Game 1” has no action on “Game 2,” and vice-versa.
⚠️ The #1 Rule to Remember: 7-Inning Games
To speed things up, MLB rules often make both games of a double-header only 7 innings long, instead of the standard 9 innings.
This is critical for betting! Sportsbooks know this and will set the lines accordingly:
- Totals (Over/Under): The Over/Under number will be much lower (e.g., 6.5 runs instead of 8.5) because there are two fewer innings.
- Run Lines (Point Spread): The lines will be adjusted for a shorter, lower-scoring game.
- Pitcher Props: A pitcher’s Over/Under for strikeouts will be lower, as they are not expected to pitch as deep into the game.
Always check the “house rules” on your sportsbook, but as long as the game is scheduled for 7 innings and completes them, all bets are action.