Cubs Embrace Controversial Torpedo Bat as Power Surges

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson has embraced a unique new bat design known as the torpedo, a model that has garnered attention among players this season for its distinctive shape and potential to boost performance.

Swanson began experimenting with the torpedo bat during the offseason and showcased its capabilities in spring training. During a recent game, he hit back-to-back home runs, reinforcing his commitment to using the bat. “You can’t knock it until you try it,” Swanson stated, emphasizing the significance of gathering data before fully endorsing a new piece of equipment.

The torpedo bat features a barrel designed to enhance contact with the sweet spot, inspiring a mix of intrigue and skepticism among players. First baseman Michael Busch, while not planning to use the bat, acknowledged its appeal after testing it in non-game scenarios. “I didn’t notice much of a difference,” Busch remarked.

As the Cubs offense took center stage, hitting coach Dustin Kelly informed local media that the team has been familiar with the torpedo design since last season and has conducted internal tests. The bulkier barrel is engineered to redistribute mass, optimizing the sweet spot area. “We’re still figuring out the bat’s impact on mechanics,” Kelly noted, underlining the importance of player familiarity with their equipment.

Second baseman Nico Hoerner, who switched to a different bat this season but has also explored the torpedo, shared his thoughts on the evolution of equipment in baseball. “Honestly, as players we’re hyperaware of opportunities to get better,” said Hoerner. “It’s about trusting the change.”

While MLB regulations govern bat dimensions, the torpedo design falls within compliance, with rules stating that bats must be a smooth, round stick, not exceeding 2.61 inches in diameter and 42 inches in length. The Cubs are not alone in exploring the bat’s capabilities; teams across the league are examining innovative equipment to keep pace with advancing pitching techniques.

The buzz surrounding the torpedo bat intensified after New York Yankees players utilized it during a historic game where they scored 20 runs and set a franchise record with nine home runs. The publicity surrounding this performance has led to increased interest in the bat from players outside the major leagues.

Ed Costantini, a 70-year-old hardball league player, recently tested the torpedo bat at Victus Sports, expressing skepticism before swinging it. After several cuts in the batting cage, Costantini was convinced enough by the bat’s performance to order four custom models. “The swings were hitting the thickness of the torpedo as opposed to the end of the bat,” he said.

Victus Sports, which has steadily produced torpedo models since last spring, has experienced a surge in demand for the bat. Co-founder Jared Smith commented on the unexpected popularity, highlighting that it took immediate interest among amateur and professional players alike. “If the Yankees hitting nine home runs in a game doesn’t happen, this doesn’t happen,” Smith said.

The torpedo bat, while still relatively new in the landscape of baseball, offers a fascinating look into how technology impacts player performance. Among current players, veterans like Aaron Judge remain faithful to traditional bats, with Judge questioning the need for change after achieving remarkable success. As players continue to explore new patterns and approaches, the evolution of the sport remains ever dynamic.

As the Cubs prepare for their home opener at Wrigley Field, the integration of equipment innovations such as the torpedo bat into training and competitive play may pave the way for significant advancements in offensive productivity.