By Myrek Zastavnyi
Baseball is constantly evolving with new technologies that help players improve their performance. The latest trend is a new type of bat known as the “Torpedo.” This model gained attention after the historic breakthrough of the New York Yankees, who hit a record-breaking 15 home runs in the first three games of the season.
What Makes the “Torpedo” Special?
The primary distinction of the “Torpedo” bat is its shifted center of gravity: its thickened section is positioned closer to the player’s hands rather than at the traditional upper part of the bat. This design increases the contact area with the ball and potentially enhances the quality of the hit.
The short-term effects of using the “Torpedo” are already noticeable. For example, Anthony Volpe, who tested the new bat last season, remarked: “The larger your hitting area, the higher your chances of making contact with the ball. It makes sense.” Volpe is not the only player to switch to the “Torpedo.” Other star players using it include Jazz Chisholm Jr., Cody Bellinger, Paul Goldschmidt, and Austin Wells.
A Legal Innovation
Despite its unusual appearance, the “Torpedo” complies with all MLB regulations. The league has confirmed that the bats do not violate rules regarding size and shape.
However, there are some concerns. Giancarlo Stanton has partially linked his elbow injuries to the use of new bats in 2024. He did not provide details, but this statement has sparked discussions in the baseball community.
Impact on the Game
Thanks to the “Torpedo” bat, the Yankees have already set several records. In a game against the Milwaukee Brewers, the team hit nine home runs, four of which were achieved using the new bats. Star outfielder Aaron Judge, although not using the “Torpedo” himself, acknowledged his teammates’ impressive results.
“I just do my job. But when the guys around you are using new technology, it makes you curious,” Judge said after a series in which he hit four home runs.
Other teams have also begun experimenting with the “Torpedo.” Tampa Bay Rays infielder Junior Caminero has already tried it in a game, and some Baltimore Orioles players are just starting to test the new model.
What’s Next?
It is still too early to say whether the “Torpedo” will become a standard in baseball. Yankees manager Aaron Boone believes it is just another element in the search for an advantage in the game. “We are constantly improving every aspect of our game, from swing analysis to choosing the right bats. This is just another step in that direction,” he said.
Jazz Chisholm, who hit two home runs in a game against the Brewers, has also become a fan of the new technology: “I saw Volpe and Wells using the ‘Torpedo’ during preseason training. I borrowed the bat, hit a double, and then a home run. That’s when I knew this thing works.”
Potential Risks and Challenges
While the “Torpedo” may improve batting performance, some analysts warn of possible negative consequences. Due to its altered weight distribution, some players may experience increased strain on their wrists and forearms, potentially leading to injuries. Team medical staff are closely monitoring players using the new bat to prevent potential issues.
It is also possible that MLB will review its bat design regulations in the future if the “Torpedo” provides an excessive advantage to certain players. Historically, the league has imposed restrictions on specific equipment to maintain game balance.
Conclusion
The “Torpedo” is undoubtedly an intriguing experiment that has already yielded positive results for the Yankees and individual players. However, only time will tell whether this model will become a baseball standard or remain a short-term trend. As Volpe put it: “If it helps me avoid just one extra strikeout per season, it’s worth a try.”
