D-H(heck with it)
Today is a sad day for baseball. On this day in 1973, the designated hitter was used for the first time and I don't like it. I never have. We bemoan the loss of 5 tool player, but having guys who never play the field doesn’t help develop good all-around players. I just don’t like the idea of a baseball player who doesn’t need a glove.
Now I'm sure Harold Baines, Frank Thomas, and others would argue with me. It has extended some careers in the American League, but there is no doubt the DH changed the game and not for the better. It also changed the strategy or rather made for a lack of it in the American League, especially since you can stay with a starting pitcher and never have to worry about hitting for him.
It was too drastic a change to the game. No thanks.
Bob
Comments
I agree that the DH is an abomination for baseball.
But, the bigger problem (for NL teams), is the guys that are semi-DHs - the guys that can sorta play outfield or corner infield.
These guys all migrate to the AL. It hurts the NL in that they are eligible for "real" positions in the All-Star Game.
I'm not sure if the NL will ever win another All-Star Game. Thanks to Bud, this means no 4 games in the WS.
Posted by: John | April 6, 2008 6:53 PM
Couldn't agree more. In the words of Crash Davis, "I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter."
Posted by: Jen | April 6, 2008 7:11 PM
i agree with that all players should have a glove
Posted by: ben | April 6, 2008 9:27 PM
I agree Bob, I remember watching Frank Thomas play and thinking, all he needs to do is go out there and hit a few homers and his job is done. Whereas we have Derrek Lee who needs to be on top of his game at first as well as have power behind the plate. I feel that every man on the field should play both ways. Offense and Defense
Posted by: Colleen | April 7, 2008 8:47 AM
I agree with you Bob. I remember watching Frank Thomas play and realizing that all he needs to do is hit a few homers and his job is done. Whereas we have Derrek Lee who has to be on his game at first and have power behind the plate. I think that everyone on the team should play both ways. Offense and defense.
On a side note, I love listening to you and Len. I was so happy when you two took over. Been a Cubs fan my whole life(even though I'm only 19) :) Go Cubbies!
Posted by: Colleen | April 7, 2008 8:52 AM
Bob, I couldn't agree more. The DH rule was a terrible change, and I think baseball as a whole has suffered for it.
Posted by: John | April 9, 2008 9:07 AM