batter, hitter, slugger, batsman

a ballplayer who is batting

• bunter — a batter who bunts
• designated hitter — a ballplayer who is designated to bat in place of the pitcher
• pinch hitter — (baseball or softball) a substitute for the regular batter
• switch-hitter — a baseball player who can bat either right or left handed
• whiffer — a batter who strikes out by swinging at and missing the third strike

• ballplayer, baseball player — an athlete who plays baseball