If the reports are true, and the return to play in the MLB will include the DH for both leagues, then pitchers hitting will be a thing of the past in Major League Baseball. With a new CBA around the corner and the universal DH being a want for some time, it’s incredibly likely that the DH will be adopted for good.
Now, I understand there are still opportunities for pitchers to hit. If a DH is pinch hit for, then a pitcher could be expected to hit in that spots place in future at-bats. Or if someone pulls a Joe Maddon, and moves Travis Wood to left field and then back to the mound. Some mad scientist manager might toss a pitcher in to hit at some point, maybe in extra innings with a short bench. But, for the most part, the last pitcher you may ever see hit, did so in the 2019 World Series.
There are legitimate arguments on both sides of this. Some believe the DH is horrible for baseball, and I agree. Some hate that the strategy will be greatly affected, and I agree. Some just want to see pitchers who rake, and I agree. Some just don’t like change, and… well… I agree.
But the MLBPA will be happier because this equals higher-paying MLB jobs for players. Owners are happier because their investment in pitching is even more secure. Joe Maddon is happy because he won’t get criticized for having a reliever hit late in a game and tear a hamstring.
Many have claimed that they won’t come back to the game if this is a thing. Honestly, they will. Purists have claimed this for a very long time, covering any number of changes baseball has incorporated – one of those changes was the DH to begin with. They will be here, and for the incredibly small amount that could leave, the $10 billion industry that professional baseball is won’t miss them as for everyone that leaves, two more will come.
