During this season he hit .288 as the Crabbers leadoff hitter. Springer, the Astros leadoff hitter, batted cleanup. He was known as a solid fielder but a poor hitter. The team's best hitter, outfielder Manny Ramirez, figured to DH at times also. He started the 2007 season as the Rangers' designated hitter and occasional right fielder. Carlton was an accomplished hitter for a pitcher. Ruth continues to excel as a powerful hitter and a great pitcher. This Year in Baseball Award winner for Best Hitter, his third time. He served as bench coach and designated hitter. Sheffield was a good hitter in the Little Leagues. He was renowned for his smooth swing that made him a reliable "contact" hitter. He won the Best Nine award as the designated hitter. Votto is known for being a clutch hitter. These two moves allowed Ortiz to become the everyday designated hitter. In 1986, Puckett began to emerge as more than just a singles hitter.