The problem with their change is that it is clearly being implemented by someone sitting in an office with no windows, who does not ride the rails and is out of touch with reality. I am seeing Acelas at off-peak times that are NEVER full - actually never above 50% or so ridership - where they are boosting the fares to middle buckets months in advance.

The idea is to maximize revenue, and taking steps that lighten the load is not going to do that.