MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred confirmed Thursday the league and the MLBPA have agreed to implement a universal designated hitter in the new collective bargaining agreement. That means no more traditional National League rules. No more pitchers hilariously flailing in the batter’s box.
This has felt like an inevitability for a while now, but it’s understandable why some traditionalists aren’t fond of the decision. Nonetheless, it should benefit the Braves moving forward. It sure helped them become an offensive juggernaut in 2020, when MLB instituted the universal DH as part of COVID-19 protocols for the 60-game season.
Marcell Ozuna thrived in the role, hitting .362/.464/.691 with 14 homers and 40 RBIs over 39 games as a DH. The Braves also didn’t have to put him in the outfield, where his poor defense lessened his value.
