With the news that the DH will be coming to the National League in 2022, there are now 15 more jobs out there. Current MLB free agents Albert Pujols, Nelson Cruz, Kyle Schwarber, Brad Miller, Dan Vogelbach, and Eddie Rosario all jump out as potential players whose markets have now expanded.
The DH has long been viewed as the American League’s way of hiding poor defenders with good bats on their team. Players like J.D. Martinez of the Boston Red Sox barely play the outfield anymore because of their lack of range and throwing arm, but they can remain in the lineup since they are one of the top offensive performers in the game.
Now, the National League will have this option as well. All of a sudden, pitcher’s spots in batting orders will be replaced with proven sluggers.