MLB Stars Embrace Controversial Torpedo Bat Amid Rising Popularity

The 'torpedo' bat, designed by MIT physicist Aaron Leanhardt, has gained traction in Major League Baseball, particularly after the New York Yankees' record-setting performance with nine home runs in a single game. This bat features a unique design that increases the sweet spot and alters weight distribution, leading to improved hitting efficiency. While some players, like Freddie Freeman and Mike Trout, express loyalty to traditional bats, others, including Yankees stars Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Cody Bellinger, are thriving with the new equipment. The bat's legality has been confirmed by MLB, but opinions about its impact on the game's integrity are mixed, with some players and analysts voicing concerns. Boston Red Sox's Alex Bregman is considering a switch to the torpedo bat in hopes of boosting his performance, while others, like Reds' Elly De La Cruz, have already seen significant success with it. As the season progresses, the use of torpedo bats is expected to grow, prompting pitchers to adapt their strategies accordingly.