The designated hitter is a player who does not play a position in the field, but instead replaces the pitcher in the batting order. However, a starting pitcher (but not relievers) may choose to also start as the designated hitter, so that the pitcher bats for himself.

The designated hitter -- or "DH" -- is a player who bats in place of the pitcher. The pitcher still handles his regular duties when his team is on defense, so the designated hitter does not play in the field.

The designated hitter rule allows teams to use another player to bat in place of the pitcher. Because the pitcher is still part of the team's nine defensive players, the designated hitter -- or "DH" -- does not take the field on defense.

Mar 15, 2020 · Any League may elect to use Rule 5.11(a), which shall be called the Designated Hitter Rule. (a) The Designated Hitter Rule provides as follows: (1) A hitter may be designated to bat for the starting pitcher and all subsequent pitchers in any game without otherwise affecting the status of the pitcher(s) in the game.

Mar 23, 2022 · The Designated Hitter, commonly referred to as DH, is a player in the batting order to hit only but not play defense. He hits in place of the pitcher. If the DH is replaced by a player who then takes a position, the pitcher must bat in the designated hitter's place.

A designated hitter (often shortened to "DH"), is an official position adopted by Major League Baseball's American League in 1973 that allowed teams to boost sagging offensive performances by designating a player to bat in place of the pitcher.

Feb 21, 2024 · Hitters who may have struggled defensively but possessed potent offensive skills found a place in the lineup as designated hitters. This allowed aging players to extend their careers and contribute to their teams in a focused offensive role.

Nov 6, 2023 · DH stands for designated hitter and is a player who bats in place of the pitcher in a professional baseball lineup. This means the pitcher does not bat, and the designated hitter does not play a defensive position.

Dec 18, 2024 · A designated hitter (DH) is a player who bats in place of the pitcher but does not play a defensive position. This role was created to boost offensive production in the lineup. The DH can be any player on the roster, often chosen for their hitting prowess.

5 days ago · Cubs designated hitter Seiya Suzuki hits during spring training on Feb. 14, 2025, at Sloan Park in Mesa, Ariz. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune) Expand.