Top 10 Designated Hitters in MLB History
These 10 designated hitters turned the DH role into a powerful, game-changing asset in Major League Baseball.
- Chris Graciano
- 2 min read
Baseball’s designated hitter has established itself as a mainstay of the offense. The role was mastered by several players, who had a lasting impression on the game. This list recognizes the top 10 designated hitters who become legendary due to their exceptional performance at the plate.
10. Brian Downing
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Downing helped shape the DH position in its early days with steady pop and on-base skills. While not as flashy as others, his production speaks volumes.
9. Jim Thome
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Thome hit over 600 home runs, many of them as a designated hitter in his later years. His patience and pure power made him a clubhouse anchor wherever he went.
8. Paul Molitor
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Molitor hit for average, stole bases, and made the Hall of Fame with over 3,000 hits — many coming as a DH. He brought versatility and smarts to the role.
7. Travis Hafner
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“Pronk” had a short but dominant peak with the Cleveland Indians. Injuries limited his longevity, but at his best, he was among the league’s most feared bats. His raw power was jaw-dropping.
6. Don Baylor
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Baylor was tough, aggressive, and packed a punch every time he stepped up. He won the 1979 MVP and was a key force in several lineups across both leagues.
5. Nelson Cruz
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Still active deep into his 40s, Cruz has kept mashing with multiple teams. His late-career surge made him one of the most feared hitters in the game.
4. Harold Baines
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Often overlooked, Baines was a model of steady production and longevity. His smooth left-handed swing delivered over 2,800 hits. A quiet but reliable DH, he earned his Hall of Fame spot through consistency.
3. Frank Thomas
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Though he spent some time in the field early on, “The Big Hurt” crushed opposing pitchers primarily from the DH spot later in his career. With back-to-back MVPs, he combined patience with raw muscle.
2. Edgar Martinez
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Martinez was the gold standard before Ortiz, blending a sharp batting eye with consistent power. A career .312 hitter, he was the face of the Mariners’ offense for years.
1. David Ortiz
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“Big Papi” delivered countless clutch hits, including postseason heroics that defined Boston’s title runs. His larger-than-life personality matched his towering home runs.