Chicago Cubs catcher Carson Kelly has highlighted the impact of MLB‘s universal designated hitter (DH) rule, introduced in 2022, which now applies to all games regardless of league affiliation. This change has notably influenced how catchers prepare and manage the game by eliminating the need to account for pitchers hitting in the lineup.

Before this rule, the American League used the DH while the National League had pitchers take their turn at bat. Kelly, who has experience in both leagues, explained that this difference previously required catchers and managers to strategize differently during games, affecting the flow and decisions behind the plate.

Kelly’s Career Journey Through Different League Rules

Kelly began his professional career with the St. Louis Cardinals before being traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2019 as part of the high-profile Paul Goldschmidt deal. During his first six seasons, he regularly faced National League lineups where pitchers batted, which presented distinct challenges when calling games.

He noted that managing games with pitchers hitting involved “a little bit more thinking” regarding lineup spots and pinch-hitting decisions, adding complexity to his role as a catcher. These factors influenced how he called pitches and adjusted game plans in response to double switches and pinch hitters common in National League strategy.

The Effects of Consistent Rules on Catcher Preparation

Since the universal DH was implemented, Kelly has found it easier to maintain consistency and rhythm in his game-calling approach. He mentioned that with no pitchers in the batting order, there are fewer moving parts to manage, allowing him to concentrate more fully on his game plan and defensive strategy.

This unified rule across the leagues removes many variables that catchers had to juggle previously, simplifying in-game decisions and reducing the mental load on players behind the plate.

The Physical Benefits of the Universal DH for Catchers

Another advantage Kelly highlighted is the reduction in physical risks associated with hitting pitchers. Because pitchers often struggle to square up pitches, Kelly experienced many foul balls striking his face and increasing injury risk during National League games.

“A lot of the pitchers — I love the pitchers, but sometimes they don’t know how to really square up a baseball, so I would get a lot of foul balls off the face and stuff,” —Carson Kelly, Chicago Cubs Catcher

With pitchers no longer hitting, Kelly has fewer opportunities to be struck by these foul balls, which is particularly important for maintaining health in a demanding and injury-prone position like catching.

Kelly’s Career and Current Performance with the Cubs

Kelly’s career has been intermittently affected by health challenges, but so far in 2025, he is enjoying a strong season with the Chicago Cubs. After signing a two-year, $11.5 million contract as a free agent over the winter, he is putting together one of his best campaigns to date.

His adaptation to the universal DH rule appears to be a contributing factor in his ability to manage games and maintain durability behind the plate, making him an increasingly valuable player for the Cubs.

Implications of the Universal DH Rule on MLB Strategy

By standardizing the use of designated hitters, MLB has simplified the dynamics between leagues, reducing the previous strategic divide and leveling the playing field. For catchers like Kelly, this leads to a more streamlined preparation process and fewer distractions during games.

This rule change not only impacts in-game tactics but also influences player health and longevity, especially for catchers who are frequently exposed to foul tips when facing pitchers at bat. As the universal DH becomes fully integrated, teams are likely to witness more consistent game management and fewer physical setbacks for key defensive players in the years ahead.