For over 70 years, the American League operated just the same as its senior counterpart, the National League, with batting lineups including a spot for the pitcher. Then Rule 6.10 was introduced to the AL in 1973, better known as the designated hitter. The revolutionary change to the game of baseball meant AL teams would forego having their pitchers hit, instead substituting a hitter who would not take the field during the game. The debate has raged on for four decades concerning the merits of the controversial rule and whether the AL should abolish it or if the NL should change.
Chicago Cubs: What the designated hitter in the National League would mean to them
