Dodgers: Five options if MLB institutes universal designated hitter

A mix of players

The great thing about the designated hitter role is that anybody can play it. That’s the entire point. For a Dodgers roster stocked with talent, an extra spot in the lineup would allow manager Dave Roberts the ability to keep his bench fresh, while playing his best everyday players in their most comfortable roles.

If the 2020 season is played, it will most definitely be a wild and hectic schedule, with few off days, doubleheaders, and high risk for player injury. The DH would allow the Dodgers to keep someone like Cody Bellinger fresh by giving him a day off in the field, without sacrificing his bat in the lineup.

Players such as Matt Beaty and Chris Taylor, who weren’t mentioned in this list as specific candidates, because of their value as replacements in the field, could also gain at-bats during games they would have otherwise been stuck on the bench.

The Dodgers don’t necessarily need a full-time DH, they would probably be best served spreading the extra plate appearances across their roster, either to keep players fresh, optimize their defense, or just add another threat to opposing pitchers.