<P> This use of a pinch hitter is often part of a double switch, in which a relief pitcher replaces a defensive player who will not bat soon, and at the same time a defensive player replaces the pitcher who is scheduled to bat soon . </P> <P> The pinch hitter may remain in the game following a pinch - hit at - bat and need not (but may) assume the same position as the player for whom he pinch - hits as long as some other player assumes that position . For example, on 16 August 2009, the Washington Nationals' Ryan Zimmerman pinch - hit for second baseman Alberto Gonzalez and then remained in the game at third base, with previous third baseman Ronnie Belliard switching positions to play second base after the change . Alternatively, the manager may designate another player to replace the pinch - hitter; this scenario is common when a team pinch - hits for a pitcher without executing a double switch, such that the new pitcher then replaces the pinch hitter and assumes the previous pitcher's place in the batting order . </P> <P> If a pinch hitter hits for the DH, the new pinch hitter stays in the game as a DH, and may not be used in the field . If the new DH does take the field, then the team forfeits the DH . </P> <P> This is a list of players with the most pinch - hits in Major League Baseball history . Names which appear in bold are active players . Includes games through July 22, 2011 . </P>

What is the difference between pinch hitter and designated hitter