Designated Hitter (DH)

The designated hitter (DH) is a player who bats in the lineup but does not play a defensive position. The DH bats in place of the pitcher, allowing teams to have a stronger offensive lineup.

History of the DH

• 1973: American League adopts the DH rule
• 1973-2021: National League keeps pitchers batting
• 2022: MLB universally adopts the DH for both leagues

How the DH Works

• The DH bats in a fixed spot in the lineup
• They never take the field defensively
• If the DH is injured, another player can DH, but:
  • If that replacement DH plays the field, the DH is forfeited
  • The pitcher would then bat

Advantages of the DH

• More offense: DHs are usually power hitters
• Pitcher safety: No awkward at-bats or baserunning
• Extended careers: Aging sluggers can still contribute
• Strategic lineup flexibility: Can rest defensive regulars

Arguments Against the DH

• "Not real baseball": Some purists prefer complete players
• Loss of strategy: No double-switches or pitcher pinch-hitting decisions
• Different skills: Players should play both sides

Famous Designated Hitters

• David Ortiz: Career DH, Hall of Famer
• Edgar Martínez: Hall of Famer, the DH award is named after him
• Harold Baines: DH specialist
• Shohei Ohtani: Modern two-way exception

The "Ohtani Rule"

In 2021, MLB created a rule allowing a starting pitcher to also bat as the DH. If removed from pitching, they can continue to bat as the DH.