Introduction to the New Bats
The New York Yankees’ recent 20-9 win over the Milwaukee Brewers has left many in awe, but some have raised eyebrows over the peculiar shape of the bats used by Anthony Volpe and Jazz Chisholm Jr. The new-look bats have barrels located closer to the hands, creating a more rounded middle and a skinnier top.
The Design and Purpose of the Bats
According to Yankees play-by-play Michael Kay, the team’s analytics department conducted a study on Anthony Volpe, which showed that he often hit the ball on the label rather than the barrel. As a result, the team had new bats made with more wood in the label area, making the harder part of the bat more likely to strike the ball.
Mar 27, 2025; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe (11) follows through on a solo home run against the Milwaukee Brewers during the second inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Legality of the Bats
There has been some question about the legality of the new bats, but Major League Baseball has confirmed that they meet the necessary parameters, measuring "not more than 2.61 inches in diameter at the thickest part and not more than 42 inches in length." The bats are being referred to as having a "torpedo" barrel, which was developed by MIT physicist Aaron Leanhardt, who works as an analyst for the Yankees’ front office.
Insights from Former Players
Former Yankees infielder Kevin Smith has shed some light on the design of the bats, explaining that MLB has rules governing bat size, weight, and density. He notes that most players are not using bats that maximize the allowed barrel size, and that the new design could lead to better outcomes, with "just-misses" becoming "clips" and "clips" becoming "flares." Smith also comments on the feel of the bats, saying they are a little lighter, with more weight closer to the hands, making it possible to swing a heavier bat.
Early Returns and Future Prospects
The early results from the new bats have been promising, with both Volpe and Chisholm hitting home runs during the Yankees’ blowout win. This style of bat could become more widespread in the majors in the coming years, as teams look to gain an edge through innovative design and technology.
Conclusion
The Yankees’ new "torpedo" bats have generated significant interest and attention, with their unique design and promising early results. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the bats perform and whether other teams adopt similar designs.
FAQs
- Q: Are the Yankees’ new bats legal?
- A: Yes, Major League Baseball has confirmed that the bats meet the necessary parameters.
- Q: What is the design of the new bats?
- A: The bats have a "torpedo" barrel, with more wood in the label area, making the harder part of the bat more likely to strike the ball.
- Q: Who developed the new bat design?
- A: The design was developed by MIT physicist Aaron Leanhardt, who works as an analyst for the Yankees’ front office.
- Q: Will other teams adopt similar bat designs?
- A: It is possible, as teams look to gain an edge through innovative design and technology.
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