The Rise of Torpedo Bats in MLB

The 2025 MLB season kicked off with an unexpected phenomenon: torpedo bats. These uniquely shaped bats, resembling bowling pins, have taken the league by storm, especially after the New York Yankees' explosive nine-home-run game early in the season. But what exactly makes these bats different, and why are they causing such a buzz?

What Makes Torpedo Bats Unique?

Unlike traditional baseball bats, which taper toward the end cap, torpedo bats redistribute mass closer to the sweet spot, roughly 6–7 inches lower. This design enhances bat speed and power, optimizing performance where players most frequently make contact.

Key Features:

• Bowling-pin shape with a thinner end
• Weight distribution favoring the sweet spot
• Balanced swing mechanics, merging speed with impact

The Science Behind the Swing

Players using torpedo bats report two major benefits:

1. Greater impact force due to concentrated mass at the point of contact.
2. Faster swing speed, as the weight distribution mimics a broomstick rather than a sledgehammer.

While not every hitter prefers them, sluggers like Giancarlo Stanton and Francisco Lindor have already seen dramatic results—boosting home runs and RBIs.

Are Torpedo Bats Legal?

Yes. MLB’s bat regulations focus on length (max 42 inches), diameter (max 2.61 inches), and a smooth, rounded shape. Since torpedo bats comply with these rules, they’re permitted—for now. However, debates continue over whether their performance advantage might prompt future restrictions.

The Origin Story

The concept was refined by Aaron Leanhardt, a former MIT physicist turned MLB coach. By rethinking bat geometry, Leanhardt aimed to counterbalance modern pitching dominance—and the results speak for themselves.

Notable Players Embracing the Trend

• Giancarlo Stanton (Yankees): A 2024 postseason power surge
• Francisco Lindor (Mets): NL MVP runner-up with torpedo bat stats
• Anthony Volpe, Jazz Chisholm Jr.: Early adopters seeing success

Torpedo Bats vs. Corked Bats: Not Even Close

Corked bats (illegally modified for lighter weight) are banned, but torpedo bats work within existing rules—relying on physics, not cheating.

The Future of Torpedo Bats

Will MLB regulate them? Possibly—if offense overshadows pitching. But for now, expect more players to experiment, fine-tuning their custom shapes like golfers with clubs. One thing’s clear: Torpedo bats are rewriting baseball’s playbook.