Destiny's Orphans

"We know they come to bat once per order, but unlike their teammates in the lineup, they disappear from our view and our thoughts until they stroll to the plate again. Most DHs, according to my sources (you can do your own research), hang back in usually restricted areas behind the dugout. The word their guild has put out is they're in the batting cage, swinging away, staying loose, preparing to unleash one mighty swing."

"He figured Miguel Cairo had sent one of his coaches in to remind him he was scheduled to hit in the top of the eleventh. Daylen Lile didn't need to be reminded by one of the manager's lieutenants. DHs come equipped with a special pager that vibrates to alert them to their appointments, similar to what restaurants hand patrons when their table is ready."

National League fans remain mostly unfamiliar with the behavior of designated hitters during games. Designated hitters bat once per order and then withdraw from view until their next plate appearance. Many DHs stay in restricted areas behind the dugout, often not practicing intensely; they sometimes play solitaire, check messages, or file their nails. A few thoughtful DHs provide postgame snacks; David Ortiz famously did so. Daylen Lile was in the Nationals clubhouse reading Rick Perlstein when he felt a tap on his shoulder. DHs typically carry vibrating pagers to alert them when they are due to hit. A stranger in orange and blue asked Lile for help.

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