My lack of true real interest in MLB has finally come to light.

I haven't really been following for decades, mostly because where I live, the team (Seattle Mariners) around here sucks.

But somehow I still missed this - > https://www.mlb.com/glossary/rules/designated-hitter-rule:

he designated hitter was adopted by the National League as part of the 2022-26 collective bargaining agreement.

What. The. Fuck.

Why?

To me, a DH is never something more than a part-time player because they never take the field.

Yes I know some players' careers have been extended because while they could no longer field (due to injury or otherwise) - they could still hit. I've always thought that was wrong.

This is one reason why I never cared for the American League style of MLB. At least the NL was staunchly opposed to it.

Until now. I guess losing all those All-Star games, and World Series since has made the owners there more eager for home runs? After all, isn't that why MLB turned a blind eye to the steroid scandal?