In MLB can starting/relief pitchers ever bat as the DH in the American League?

Question

In Major League Baseball, is it possible for a Starting pitcher (on off days) or a relief pitcher in the American League to hit as the Designated Hitter?

Answer 1

yessirr

Answer 2

Yes, of course. Anyone can play any position. If a pitcher acts as that day's DH, though, all the usual DH restrictions apply -- if he enters the game at a defensive position, the pitcher then must bat (even if he enters as a pitcher).

Rick Rhoden once did bat as DH for the Yankees. He had played in the NL for years and was a decent hitter, as pitchers go. (Rhoden had pitched on 09-June, did not pitch in his DH game, then started again on 15-June.)

Box, 11-June-1988: http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/...

Answer 3

I don't know if there is an explicit rule about it (so sorry to not answer your question directly), but it would be very unlikely to happen as most pitchers who can hit decently will end up in the National League as those teams are willing to pay more for them.  I believe if it is an off day for the pitcher then there is no rule against it, but I can't say with 100% certainty.

Answer 4

Absolutely.  The Diamondbacks flirted with Micah Owings as a DH in interleague play, though they never went through with it.

Answer 5

yeah but that wouldnt be a good idea

Answer 6

I'm sure its possible but only if the pitcher can hit  

Answer 7

Yes - it's been done a few times (though not recently).  Basically, any player who is not otherwise in the starting lineup can be a DH, regardless of what other positions they play.

Answer 8

Yes, SP/RP's can still bat as DH. It all depends on the manager really. That would be highly unlikely in a realistic setting though. Still, everyone on the AL roster can bat except for the pitcher who starts on that day.