The New York Yankees etched their names into the record books on Saturday, smashing nine home runs in a single game-a feat only achieved twice before in MLB history. However, beyond the jaw-dropping power display, another storyline emerged: the growing buzz around baseball’s latest equipment innovation, the so-called “torpedo” bats.
As Aaron Judge led the charge against the Milwaukee Brewers with three home runs, including a grand slam, the Yankees’ explosive offense left fans and analysts wondering whether these specialized bats played a role in the historic performance.
Paul Goldschmidt, Cody Bellinger, and Judge himself also made history by launching back-to-back-to-back home runs on the first three pitches-an event never before recorded in the pitch-tracking era.
MLB greenlit the “torpedo” bats
The cutting-edge bats, reportedly developed by former MIT and Michigan physicist Aaron Leonhardt, feature a modified barrel designed to align the sweet spot with a hitter’s natural contact point.
Former Yankees infielder Kevin Smith referred to them as “torpedo” bats, and they’ve already found favor among players like Jazz Chisholm and Anthony Volpe, according to Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay.
Despite their rapid adoption, questions arose regarding their legality within Major League Baseball. However, a league spokesperson confirmed to Front Office Sports that the design complies with the Official Baseball Rules and Bat Supplier Regulations, ensuring their continued use.
A revolution is on the horizon
Interestingly, Judge did not use a “torpedo” bat during his multi-homer performance, but the impact of the bats on other Yankees hitters was evident. As the Yankees prepare to wrap up their series against the Brewers on Sunday, the baseball world will be watching closely to see if the bats continue making waves.
With MLB officially green-lighting the technology, the debate now shifts to whether other teams will follow suit. If Saturday’s offensive explosion is any indication, the “torpedo” bat could soon revolutionize Major League Baseball.
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