The DH rule: You decide

The Rays and Pirates are presenting fans with a unique look at the designated hitter rule Monday during their game at McKechnie Field.

Since it is a National League park, spring training rules say pitchers must hit. But the NL manager has the option of using a DH to get a position player more at-bats.

The DH was used during the first two trips to Bradenton this spring.

But today, the Rays will continue to use the DH, while the Pirates will let their pitchers hit.

That will basically amount to Pirate starter Zach Duke getting one, maybe two at-bats, before fans are treated to a parade of pinch-hitters.

The Rays will use Matt Joyce as the DH. Joyce has missed most of spring training because of an injury to his right calf.

So, the age-old debate (started in 1973) will rage on at McKechnie: is baseball better or worse with the DH.

You decide.