The 2025 MLB season promises to be an exciting year for Designated Hitters (DHs), as more teams than ever are relying on power-packed lineups to drive their offenses. DH hitters, the stalwarts of offense, are becoming even more crucial as teams use the designated hitter role to maximize offensive production without worrying about fielding abilities. This role continues to evolve, and some players are truly setting themselves apart with outstanding performances at the plate.
In this article, we will dive into the best DH hitters to watch in 2025, highlighting the players who are poised for big years based on their stats and previous performances. Whether you're a fantasy baseball enthusiast or a die-hard fan of MLB action, these sluggers are sure to make a lasting impact.
1. Shohei Ohtani (LAD)
Shohei Ohtani is undoubtedly the most electric DH in all of baseball. The 2025 season is expected to be another year of dominance for the two-way superstar. In 2024, Ohtani's stats were nothing short of sensational, with a .310 batting average, 54 home runs, and a 1.036 OPS across 159 games. His 130 RBIs also proved that Ohtani isn’t just a power hitter, but a complete offensive machine. While he is best known for his pitching prowess, his ability to step into the DH role and deliver in a major way with the bat is what makes him one of the most fascinating players in baseball. Expect Ohtani to continue to provide massive production for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
2024 Stats:
- Games: 159
- At Bats: 636
- Hits: 197
- Home Runs: 54
- RBIs: 130
- Batting Average: .310
- OPS: 1.036
2. Marcell Ozuna (ATL)
With a powerful bat and a steady presence in the lineup, Marcell Ozuna is another DH to keep your eyes on in 2025. Playing for the Atlanta Braves, Ozuna’s 39 home runs and 104 RBIs in 2024 helped power the Braves’ potent offense. His .302 batting average and .924 OPS were outstanding, as he consistently delivered in clutch situations. Ozuna is known for his ability to hit for both average and power, making him a key player in the Braves’ lineup once again in 2025.
2024 Stats:
- Games: 162
- At Bats: 606
- Hits: 183
- Home Runs: 39
- RBIs: 104
- Batting Average: .302
- OPS: .924
3. Brent Rooker (OAK)
Brent Rooker is quickly becoming one of the most exciting power hitters in the game. Despite playing for the Oakland Athletics, Rooker had a stellar season in 2024, hitting 39 home runs with 112 RBIs. His .293 batting average and .927 OPS prove that Rooker has the potential to be one of the most dangerous hitters in the American League in 2025. With his ability to hit for both average and power, expect Rooker to continue to shine as one of the premier DHs in the game.
2024 Stats:
- Games: 145
- At Bats: 546
- Hits: 160
- Home Runs: 39
- RBIs: 112
- Batting Average: .293
- OPS: .927
4. Kyle Schwarber (PHI)
When it comes to pure power, Kyle Schwarber is always a threat. His 2024 season included 38 home runs and 104 RBIs, with a solid .248 batting average. While Schwarber’s average may not be the highest, his ability to drive the ball out of the park makes him a dangerous DH to face. Playing for the Philadelphia Phillies, Schwarber will continue to provide middle-of-the-order power and make an impact in 2025.
2024 Stats:
- Games: 150
- At Bats: 573
- Hits: 142
- Home Runs: 38
- RBIs: 104
- Batting Average: .248
- OPS: .851
5. Yordan Alvarez (HOU)
Yordan Alvarez is one of the most feared hitters in all of baseball, and 2025 is shaping up to be another dominant season for him. The Houston Astros’ slugger racked up 35 home runs and 86 RBIs in 2024, along with an impressive .308 batting average and .959 OPS. Alvarez is known for his raw power and ability to hit for both average and power. As one of the most elite DHs in the game, Alvarez is poised to continue his impressive run in 2025.
2024 Stats:
- Games: 147
- At Bats: 552
- Hits: 170
- Home Runs: 35
- RBIs: 86
- Batting Average: .308
- OPS: .959
6. Giancarlo Stanton (NYY)
Giancarlo Stanton remains one of the most physically imposing hitters in the game, and while he has battled injuries in recent years, his power is undeniable. In 2024, Stanton hit 27 home runs and drove in 72 RBIs despite playing just 114 games. With a .475 slugging percentage and .773 OPS, Stanton continues to be a potent DH for the New York Yankees. As long as he stays healthy, Stanton can still hit 40+ home runs in a full season.
2024 Stats:
- Games: 114
- At Bats: 417
- Hits: 97
- Home Runs: 27
- RBIs: 72
- Batting Average: .233
- OPS: .773
7. Joc Pederson (AZ)
Joc Pederson has been a reliable DH for several teams over the years, and in 2024, he showed his value with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Pederson’s 23 home runs and 64 RBIs helped him finish with an OPS of .908. His ability to hit left-handed pitching, combined with a .393 on-base percentage, makes him a formidable presence in the middle of Arizona’s lineup. Pederson’s power and ability to get on base make him one of the top DHs to watch in 2025.
2024 Stats:
- Games: 132
- At Bats: 367
- Hits: 101
- Home Runs: 23
- RBIs: 64
- Batting Average: .275
- OPS: .908
8. Alec Burleson (STL)
Alec Burleson may not be a household name yet, but he is quickly becoming a player to watch. Burleson posted a solid .269 batting average and contributed 21 home runs and 78 RBIs for the St. Louis Cardinals in 2024. His ability to make consistent contact and drive in runs makes him a valuable asset as a DH. With more experience under his belt, Burleson could take his game to the next level in 2025.
2024 Stats:
- Games: 152
- At Bats: 547
- Hits: 147
- Home Runs: 21
- RBIs: 78
- Batting Average: .269
- OPS: .734
9. Andrew McCutchen (PIT)
Andrew McCutchen may be in the later stages of his career, but his veteran presence and ability to still deliver at the plate cannot be overlooked. In 2024, McCutchen hit 20 home runs with 50 RBIs, while posting a .739 OPS. Although he no longer plays a full-time outfield role, McCutchen’s ability to still produce at the DH position makes him a valuable asset for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2025.
2024 Stats:
- Games: 120
- At Bats: 448
- Hits: 104
- Home Runs: 20
- RBIs: 50
- Batting Average: .232
- OPS: .739
10. J.D. Martinez (NYM)
The New York Mets’ designated hitter, J.D. Martinez, continues to provide excellent offensive production. With a .235 batting average and 16 home runs, Martinez may not be the most eye-popping DH, but his experience and ability to produce runs make him a key part of the Mets’ offense. Expect him to continue to hit for power and be a reliable RBI contributor in 2025.
2024 Stats:
- Games: 120
- At Bats: 434
- Hits: 102
- Home Runs: 16
- RBIs: 69
- Batting Average: .235
- OPS: .726
Conclusion
As the 2025 MLB season approaches, these DH hitters are poised to provide some of the most exciting moments in baseball. From the all-around brilliance of Shohei Ohtani to the consistent power of Kyle Schwarber and Yordan Alvarez, fans can expect big things from these players. Whether you're watching the game for the sheer spectacle of their power or keeping an eye on your fantasy team, these DHs are ones to watch closely in 2025.
