Quote:
Originally Posted by jojo
To me the most compelling argument for a DH is, "Who wants to watch a pitcher bat or run the bases?".
I get that pinch-hitting for the pitcher adds a uniqueness to the NL style of baseball but it's not really dramatically different that AL managers using the pen to exploit platoon splits in the late innings.
Also, bullpen specialists might represent a class of player with the most limited skillset in their sport. In many cases, they are the baseball version of a placekicker. No one picks on the modern specialization of the pen as an affront to baseball players. I'd take an Edgar Martinez over a George Sherrill (aka "death to lefties") anyday concerning baseball players.
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Who wants to see Shaquille O'Neal shoot free throws? It is part of the game. Just because a player has a weakness doesn't mean his team should be allowed to use another player to pick up his slack. If a player has a weakness he should work hard to improve and get better.
If you are a baseball player you have to play offense
and defense.
Part of the reason pitchers can't hit is because the DH rule was invented. They stop batting as soon as they turn pro. All through the amateur ranks pitchers play both ways. Oftentimes a team's best pitcher is also their best hitter. A good athlete should be able to do both.
A pitcher who can hit can be quite an advantage for his team. Team's should be rewarded for having good all-around baseball players instead of nonathletic specialists who can only do one thing well.
If you are going to allow DHs to bat in the pitcher's spot, why not have a DH for the shortstop too? Shortstop is a defensive position often played by a weak hitter. Who wants to watch a shortstop hit? Shouldn't they allow a real hitter to take his spot in the lineup? Why not just be like football and one group of guys play offense and another group of guys play defense? Nah, that would be ridiculous -- just like the DH.