Rob Manfred Announces MLB Will Implement Universal DH in 2022

Say goodbye to pitchers hitting.

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred announced Thursday that a designated hitter will be implemented in the National League in 2022. 

Manfred’s announcement comes as MLB and the Players’ Union continue to negotiate a host of issues amid a lockout. Manfred also announced Thursday a draft lottery will be added as an anti-tanking measure.

Robert Manfred announced that MLB has agreed to a draft lottery and a universal DH pic.twitter.com/6hDbrXognb

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) February 10, 2022

Manfred added he expects the regular season to begin on time on March 31. Spring Training is currently in jeopardy, though Manfred also expressed optimism on that front. 

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred: “The status of spring training is no change right now... I’m an optimist, and I believe we will have an agreement in time to play our regular-season schedule.” pic.twitter.com/1om326VqrP

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) February 10, 2022

MLB and the union are looking to avoid the sport's first regular-season work stoppage since 1994. The '94 season was suspended and ultimately canceled that August, as the league’s players went on strike.

Another round of bargaining between MLB and the MLBPA is slated for Saturday.