logo

Video encyclopedia

06/04/1973 The American League of MLB begins using the designated hitter

0:41

April 6, 1973, Tony Oliva hits first DH home run

The first designated hitter in the history of baseball was Ron Blomberg of the New York Yankees when he went to bat in the first regular season game played under the controversial new rule. From the beginning, some people criticized the designated hitter in bitter, moralistic terms.
    • Essentials 

    • Major League Baseball rule 

    • Background and history 

    • Debate 

    • Outside of Major League Baseball