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MLB Players Reportedly Expected to 'Easily' Approve Universal DH for 2020 Season
May 13, 2020
The designated hitter will reportedly become a reality for all Major League Baseball teams in 2020.
Per MLB Network's Jon Heyman, players are expected to "easily" approve the proposed rule change that will allow all 30 teams to use a DH this season if games can be played.
The universal DH is one of the proposals put forth MLB's plan to potentially start the regular season in July.
ESPN's Jeff Passan reported on Monday that owners approved MLB's full proposal that also includes an 82-game regular season, increased playoff format, 50-50 revenue split with players and a 30-man roster with a taxi squad of at least 50 players available.
Per ESPN's Jesse Rogers, the league and MLB Players Association had a "multihour meeting" on Tuesday that served as the first step in addressing the many issues still remaining if the season is going to begin this summer.
Rogers added a majority of the MLBPA's concerns revolve around issues of COVID-19 testing and response protocols if someone tests positive.
Heyman noted players have "long favored" having a universal DH. Implementing the rule for 2020 also reduces the potential risk of pitchers being injured either in the batter's box or running the bases, thus limiting the possible number of roster changes for teams.
The DH was first implemented by the American League prior to the 1973 season and is used by both teams in AL ballparks during interleague play.