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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/base-dh-universal

When did MLB's National League adopt the designated hitter for good?

2022. The American League has used it since 1973.

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  1. 2022 ✔
  2. 1973
  3. 1996

Why: The American League adopted the DH in 1973, while National League pitchers kept batting. The National League adopted it in 2022, so now every MLB game uses it. It was also used in both leagues in 2020 only.

Huh, didn't know that: From 1976 to 1985, World Series teams used the DH only in even-numbered years.

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Why did the National League finally pick a DH? Pitchers were tired of striking a pose.
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References

Answer: 2022. The American League adopted the DH in 1973, while National League pitchers kept batting. The National League adopted it in 2022, so now every MLB game uses it. It was also used in both leagues in 2020 only.

  1. MLB Glossary: Designated Hitter Rule www.mlb.com/glossary/rules/designated-hitter-rule
    The designated hitter was adopted by the National League as part of the 2022-26 collective bargaining agreement.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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Sports & FitnessWho does the designated hitter bat in place of?Sports & FitnessIn MLB, where is the top of the strike zone?Sports & FitnessA pitch hits the ground, then bounces through the strike zone. The batter does not swing. What is it?

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