A pitcher attempting to hit is often on a scale from laughable to surprising depending upon the outcome. Since the implementation of the Designated Hitter in 1973, the American League (AL) and the rest of professional baseball excluding the National League (NL) have avoided this exercise in offensive futility except in certain circumstances. In another age it was different.
Prior to the emergence of the “Modern Era” considered from 1901 onward, a pitcher was expected to hit and would often play the field on days when mound duty was not needed. They could in some instances be exceptional at both – pitching and hitting.