Elly De La Cruz Shines with New 'Torpedo Bat' as MLB Trend Grows

In-Depth Analysis

The buzz around 'torpedo' bats ignited early in the 2025 MLB season after the New York Yankees showcased significant power, hitting 15 home runs in their opening series. Analysis revealed several Yankees hitters were using these unconventionally shaped bats.

The design stems from detailed swing data analysis. Aaron Leanhardt, now with the Miami Marlins, spearheaded the concept while with the Yankees. By identifying where a player like Anthony Volpe most frequently made contact (near the label on a standard bat), Leanhardt proposed moving more wood mass to that specific area, creating a custom-optimized barrel for potentially harder and more consistent contact.

While the Yankees were early adopters, the trend is spreading. Elly De La Cruz's immediate success after switching highlights the potential appeal. Other players confirmed or seen using torpedo bats include:

Cody Bellinger (Yankees)
Alec Bohm (Phillies)
Junior Caminero (Rays)
Jazz Chisholm Jr. (Yankees)
Oneil Cruz (Pirates)
Paul Goldschmidt (Yankees)
Nico Hoerner (Cubs)
Ryan Jeffers (Twins)
Francisco Lindor (Mets)
Adley Rutschman (Orioles)
Davis Schneider (Blue Jays)
Dansby Swanson (Cubs)
Jose Trevino (Reds)
Anthony Volpe (Yankees)
Austin Wells (Yankees)

Opinions remain mixed. Players using them, like De La Cruz, report feeling comfortable. Others, like Giancarlo Stanton, defend them against unrelated injury speculation. Some teams and players are ordering shipments, while others remain skeptical, attributing the Yankees' early success partly to their ballpark or opponent pitching. However, the rapid adoption suggests many see potential benefits. As long as they meet MLB regulations (Rule 3.02), expect to see more torpedo bats in dugouts across the league.

Read source article

FAQ

What exactly is a torpedo bat?

It's a baseball bat with a customized shape, featuring a thicker barrel (sweet spot) positioned specifically based on a player's swing data to optimize contact. It often looks wider near the end before thinning out.

Are these bats legal in MLB?

Yes, torpedo bats are legal as long as they adhere to MLB Rule 3.02, which governs bat dimensions (smooth, round, solid wood, max 2.61-inch diameter, max 42-inch length) and requires MLB approval for new designs.

Who invented or developed the torpedo bat concept?

Aaron Leanhardt, a former MIT physicist and baseball analyst (previously with the Yankees, now with the Marlins), is credited with developing the data-driven concept.

Takeaways

**Data-Driven Equipment:** This trend highlights how teams are using advanced analytics not just for strategy, but to customize player equipment like bats for potential performance gains.
**Rapid Tech Adoption:** Players and teams are quick to experiment with new technology if it offers a perceived competitive advantage, even if its widespread impact is still under evaluation.
**Ongoing Debate:** Whether torpedo bats offer a significant, sustainable boost to offense compared to traditional bats, or if it's an early-season anomaly, will be closely watched as the season progresses.

Discussion

Will torpedo bats become the new standard in MLB, or is this just a passing trend? Let us know!

*Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!*

Sources

Source 1: Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz has monster game using ‘torpedo bat’ | CNN target="_blank" Source 2: Which MLB players are using the new 'torpedo' bats? | Yahoo Sports target="_blank" Source 3: Elly De La Cruz's two-run homer | MLB.com target="_blank"

Disclaimer

This article was compiled by Yanuki using publicly available data and trending information. The content may summarize or reference third-party sources that have not been independently verified. While we aim to provide timely and accurate insights, the information presented may be incomplete or outdated.

All content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Yanuki makes no representations or warranties regarding the reliability or completeness of the information.

This article may include links to external sources for further context. These links are provided for convenience only and do not imply endorsement.

Always do your own research (DYOR) before making any decisions based on the information presented.