Designated Hitter

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Ron Blomberg, the first designated hitter in MLB history, steps into the batter's box during a 1973 game, symbolizing the introduction of a new era in baseball strategy.

What is the Designated Hitter rule and how did it change MLB strategy?

On April 6, 1973, Ron Blomberg stepped up for the New York Yankees, not as a fielder, but as baseball's first designated hitter.

Marco Moretti·August 10, 2026