The designated hitter rule, or DH rule, is a Major League Baseball (MLB) rule that allows teams to designate a player to hit for the pitcher in a game. This rule was introduced in 1973 in order to generate more offense and reduce the number of pitching injuries. The National League (NL) and the American League (AL) adopted the rule at different times and with different rules.
History of the Designated Hitter Rule
The designated hitter rule was first proposed by the American League in the late 1960s. The National League rejected the idea, with the exception of the 1972 All-Star Game, which was played under AL rules. In 1973, the AL adopted the rule permanently, while the NL adopted the rule in 1975.
How the Designated Hitter Rule Works
The designated hitter rule allows teams to designate a player to hit for the pitcher in a game. The designated hitter, or DH, does not play in the field and does not take the place of the pitcher in the batting order. Instead, the DH is placed in the batting order, usually in the ninth spot. The DH is allowed to bat for any of the nine players, including the pitcher, regardless of their defensive position.
Advantages of the Designated Hitter Rule
The designated hitter rule has been credited with increasing offense in MLB. Since the rule was adopted, teams have seen an increase in the number of runs scored, hits, and home runs. The DH rule also reduces the potential for pitching injuries, as pitchers do not have to bat and run the bases.
Disadvantages of the Designated Hitter Rule
The designated hitter rule has been criticized by some for reducing the strategic elements of the game. The use of the DH eliminates the possibility of double-switches, which can be used to optimize matchups between pitchers and hitters. Additionally, the DH rule can limit the amount of playing time for certain players, such as utility players who may not be good enough to be the DH.
Interleague Play and the Designated Hitter Rule
The designated hitter rule affects interleague play, as it is only used in the American League. When an AL team plays a NL team, the AL team must use the DH rule and the NL team may not use a DH. This means that NL teams must use their pitchers to bat when playing AL teams.
World Series and the Designated Hitter Rule
The designated hitter rule is used in the World Series, which is played between the champions of the AL and NL. The DH is used in games played in AL ballparks, but is not used in games played in NL ballparks. This means that NL teams must use their pitchers to bat when playing in AL ballparks.
The Impact of the Designated Hitter Rule on Player Contracts
The designated hitter rule has had an impact on the salaries of certain players. Teams are willing to pay more for power-hitting DHs, as they can provide more offense than a typical pitcher. Additionally, teams may be willing to pay less for pitchers who can hit well, as they do not need to use a DH when playing in NL ballparks.
The Impact of the Designated Hitter Rule on the Hall of Fame
The designated hitter rule has had an impact on the Hall of Fame. Some players, such as Edgar Martinez, have been voted in to the Hall of Fame primarily because of their performance as a DH. Additionally, some players, such as David Ortiz, are eligible for the Hall of Fame primarily because of their performance as a DH.
Conclusion
The designated hitter rule has been in place in Major League Baseball since 1973. The rule has been credited with increasing offense and reducing the potential for pitching injuries. However, the rule has been criticized by some for reducing the strategic elements of the game. The rule also affects interleague play, the World Series, player contracts, and the Hall of Fame.