Fantasy baseball leagues have different rules as far as designated hitters go (in mixed leagues, of course), and the majority these days seem to favor the DH as a sort of utility position rather than a true DH. After all, there are only 14 of them starting on a given night, and perhaps a 15th playing an interleague game now that the leagues are balanced with the Houston Astros moving to the American League.
And most teams are treating the DH in a similar way these days. David Ortiz is still a full-time DH, but most other teams seem to be going with a hybrid approach, a way to give an aging player a "day off" from a day in the field or a young catcher some more at-bats as managers try to reduce the wear and tear of the long season.
These are the top five designated hitters, and it's not a given that all five will even be drafted in your league. You'd probably be better off with an extra first baseman or outfielder -- just pick the best hitter available. It might be one of these guys, and it might not. And these players might have an eligible position, too -- it varies by league.
(Note: Billy Butler, Edwin Encarnacion and Kendrys Morales are listed as a first basemen in the About.com rankings. Jesus Montero is listed at catcher. Check your league for eligibility rules.)
- David Ortiz, Red Sox
- Victor Martinez, Tigers (perhaps eligible at C)
- Adam Dunn, White Sox (likely eligible at 1B)
- Adam Lind, Blue Jays (likely eligible at 1B)
- Luke Scott, Rays (perhaps eligible at 1B)
2013 position rankings
- Catchers
- First basemen
- Second basemen
- Shortstops
- Third basemen
- Outfielders
- Designated hitters
- Starting pitchers (coming Wednesday)
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