:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/63009730/usa_today_11312921.0.jpg)
If the Designated Hitter came to the National League in 2019, who on the Pittsburgh Pirates would be best suited for the role?
^^That says it all. When I was thinking about this, it struck me just how well the Designated Hitter would serve the 2019 Pittsburgh Pirates.
But which player would must benefit the team by staying in the dugout when the Bucs are in the field? Here’s a poll, with some thoughts below:
Poll
The best hypothetical DH for 2019 would be...
This poll is closed
-
26%
Josh Bell
(352 votes) -
4%
Gregory Polanco
(67 votes) -
29%
Jung Ho Kang
(397 votes) -
10%
Francisco Cervelli
(141 votes) -
1%
Elias Diaz
(14 votes) -
20%
Whichever of Cervelli/Diaz isn’t starting
(270 votes) -
7%
Rotation/other
(106 votes)
-To me, I think the answer is pretty clear and simple. That being, Josh Bell. Take his defense out of the field whenever possible. Then again....keeping Cervelli fresh and saving his legs at any opportunity would be a good idea....well, also you can stack Diaz’s and Cervelli’s bats together when one is behind the plate. The tandem was the most productive catching duo in baseball and it would be such a bonus to have both bats in the lineup at one time. Speaking of right handed bats, DHing Jung Ho Kang would guard against any instability in those knees and mitigate any risk of further injury. Speaking of injury, Polanco can be eased back into action if he didn’t have to play in right field as he worked his way back.
See? Like I said, very easy answer. Let us know what you think!