Do pitchers bat?

In baseball, the designated hitter rule is the common name for Major League Baseball Rule 5.11, adopted by the American League in 1973. The rule allows teams to have one player, known as the designated hitter (abbreviated DH), to bat in place of the pitcher. read more

The idea that pitchers can’t hit is silly. Pitcher’s in both leagues used to bat and many did it pretty well. However, everything takes practice; over the years teams stopped making pitchers take batting practice every day and their skills eroded. If you want pitchers to hit again, make them take batting practice again. It really is that simple. read more

In the 70's, the American League decided to add the designated hitter, this position was to bat for the pitcher. The American League decided to do this to boost attendance and interest, because the pitchers were often considered automatic outs. read more