Dodgers: Four reasons why the universal DH could be beneficial

4 of 5

PEORIA, ARIZONA – MARCH 09: Kike Hernandez #14 of the Los Angeles Dodgers follows through on a swing against the San Diego Padres during a spring training game at Peoria Stadium on March 09, 2020 in Peoria, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images) /

3) New opportunities

The Dodgers lineup doesn’t have many holes. In fact, you could argue, other than the at catcher and in left field, each starter deserves full playing time, 500 plate appearances.

For a bench unit that is stocked with versatile talent, adding the designated hitter role would create many new opportunities.

Think of a player like Kiké Hernandez, who is set to become a free agent after this season, and could use every at-bat he can get to prove his value on the open market. Without the DH, Hernandez would be stuck searching for playing time behind Gavin Lux at second, or Corey Seager at short, or somewhere else on the field where he could sneak into the lineup. The designated hitter role gives him a chance to swing the bat more regularly.

Same could be said of Chris Taylor. Or Matt Beaty. Or even AJ Pollock instead of being stuck in a platoon role with Joc Pederson.

And what about the players destined for the minor leagues who now might have an added roster spot to prove their value in the majors? Edwin Rios comes to mind.

The DH opens up several opportunities for Dodgers players in 2020.

Home/LA Dodgers News