JeffGooch:
They figure you have to strike the ball harder so they set the default of the putter to a higher range. Also to grab your attention that the shot IS from the fringe and not just a standard putt.
Mainly it's the latter of the two. I usually add 3 feet to the length of the putt and hit from the meter range i am most comfortable.
It might be possible to buy that theory...if it was consistent and happened every time instead of on a few holes. I have only found it to happen on a few holes and every other time it is a rational meter.
Also have found a few situations with an uphill putt (10 or 11 inches uphill) of 23 feet....and a 25 foot swing meter that does not reach the cup on a perfect hit. That belies the theory of them giving a longer meter based on having to strike the ball harder.