SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/base-dh-bats-for

Who does the designated hitter bat in place of?

The pitcher.

Start playing free

  1. The catcher
  2. The worst hitter
  3. The pitcher ✔

Why: The designated hitter, or DH, bats in place of the pitcher. The DH does not play defense, and the pitcher stays in the field without batting.

Huh, didn't know that: Since 2022, a starting pitcher who also bats can be treated as two players, so he can stay as DH after leaving the mound.

The dad joke
Why did the pitcher love the DH? Someone else could take a swing at it.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: The pitcher. The designated hitter, or DH, bats in place of the pitcher. The DH does not play defense, and the pitcher stays in the field without batting.

  1. MLB Glossary: Designated Hitter Rule www.mlb.com/glossary/rules/designated-hitter-rule
    The designated hitter rule allows teams to use another player to bat in place of the pitcher.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Sports & FitnessWhen did MLB's National League adopt the designated hitter for good?Sports & FitnessA pitcher balks with runners on base. What happens?Sports & FitnessIn MLB since 2023, how long does a pitcher have to pitch with the bases empty?

That's stuff everyone should know.