Overview
The designated hitter (DH) rule allows a specialized batter to hit in place of the pitcher. In NPB, the Pacific League has used the DH since 1975, while the Central League has not adopted it, creating the most significant tactical difference between the two leagues. The Pacific League benefits from deeper lineups by placing power hitters in the DH spot. Hiromitsu Kadota epitomized the DH advantage, slugging 44 home runs at age 40 as a designated hitter. In the Central League, with pitchers batting ninth, the timing of pinch hitters and pitching changes becomes a crucial strategic element. During interleague play, Pacific League home games use the DH while Central League home games do not, sometimes leaving Central League teams scrambling to fill the DH role. The same home-team rule applies in the Japan Series. While MLB unified both leagues under the DH rule in 2022, NPB has not advanced discussions on introducing the DH to the Central League, preferring to maintain each league's distinct identity.