According to Buster Olney of ESPN (paywall), “unless the MLB and players’ union animus erupts to the point of complete dysfunction” this offseason, it’s a “safe bet” the National League will readopt the designated hitter for the 2021 season.
This spring, both MLB and the MLBPA agreed upon the universal DH through 2021. Once the two sides reached a stalemate in June, forcing MLB commissioner Rob Manfred to enact the 2020 season on his terms, the agreement was nullified.
Assuming both parties are still on-board, it’s safe to assume MLB will implement the universal DH once again in 2021. For teams like the New York Mets, this could be a boon.
The Mets have a roster built around versatility with talented hitters strewn about their bench. Players without a true defensive home – think J.D. Davis and Dominic Smith – wouldn’t need to be forced into the lineup.
Smith, for example, and starting first baseman Pete Alonso – an offensive force in his own right – can harmoniously co-exist. Again, potentially huge ramifications.
A concrete decision from the league and the union early on this offseason would be beneficial for planning purposes, but we’ve yet to hear anything official.
We’ll keep you posted with new information as it becomes available.
