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Baseball has increasingly embraced data analytics, yet tangible advancements in equipment have been few and far between. However, the recent emergence of the “torpedo bat” marks a significant shift in this trend.
This innovative bat gained headlines when three players from the New York Yankees combined to hit nine home runs in a single game, nearly matching the major league record set by the Blue Jays in 1987. Key contributors included Paul Goldschmidt, Cody Bellinger, Austin Wells, Anthony Volpe, and Jazz Chisholm Jr., who all utilized the torpedo bats during a commanding 20-9 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers.
The excitement surrounding the torpedo bat continued when Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz also made headlines by hitting two home runs and driving in seven runs against the Texas Rangers, contributing to a 14-3 victory.
The growing popularity of these uniquely designed bats has an interesting Canadian link. Miami Marlins coordinator Aaron Leanhardt, a former physics professor, is credited with their design.
What Sets the Torpedo Bat Apart?
The torpedo bat features a barrel shape reminiscent of a bowling pin. This design shifts the wood lower on the barrel, enhancing the sweet spot, which can significantly benefit batters.
Leanhardt, who transitioned to the Marlins from the Yankees last summer, began work on the torpedo bat two years ago. Although initial prototypes did not yield expected results, there was notable interest from players eager to try them.
“The industry has been increasingly aware of this development, possibly more so than the media,” Leanhardt commented. “Players have shown significant interest and have been asking to use them.”
Despite the bats’ early successes, he emphasized that the accomplishments lie primarily with the hitters, not the equipment. “At the end of the day, it’s about the batter, not the bat,” he stated, highlighting the importance of the player’s skill and training.
While the torpedo bats have stirred excitement in the early season, they comply with MLB regulations. Blue Jays manager John Schneider expressed optimism about the technology’s role in the game, viewing it as an evolution rather than a disruption.
Who is Embracing the Torpedo Bat?
Currently, around 16 players are utilizing the torpedo bats, including both the Yankees and Toronto’s utility infielder Davis Schneider. Schneider has shared his experience with the bat but acknowledged variances in player preference when it comes to bat design, suggesting that some established stars may prefer their traditional equipment.
“Players like Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will likely stick to their familiar bats, as it’s often about personal comfort and feel,” Schneider noted. “Different players have different preferences, especially when it comes to bat diameter.”
Schneider currently has two torpedo bats but is expecting an additional dozen from the Quebec City-based B45 Baseball, one of four manufacturers producing this model. Production manager Olivier Lépine shared that interest in the bat is rising, with demand from teams growing rapidly.
Notably, Giancarlo Stanton of the Yankees was among the first to use the torpedo bat last season, though he recently landed on the injured list due to elbow pain. He subtly suggested during spring training that adjustments to his equipment might have contributed to his discomfort, confirming that he intends to continue using the bats upon his return.
The torpedo bat represents an intriguing development in baseball equipment, merging innovative design with the classic game. As it gains traction among professionals, it may become a staple in the sport’s evolving landscape.
Source
globalnews.ca