Yankees Face Diamondbacks Amid Controversy Over ‘Torpedo’ Bats

BRONX, N.Y. — The New York Yankees open a three-game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks Tuesday, April 1, 2025, amid controversy surrounding their bats. The Yankees are coming off a three-game sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers where their offense exploded, scoring 36 runs and hitting a franchise record of nine home runs in a single game.

As the Yankees (3-0) prepare for their home opener at Yankee Stadium, their use of customized ‘Torpedo’ bats has stirred significant discussion. These legal bats maximize a hitter’s sweet spot, with several players, including star outfielder Jazz Chisholm, utilizing them to great effect.

“The Torpedo bats have shifted the balance in our favor,” Chisholm said after recording a .417 average with three home runs in the opening series against the Brewers. “We’re just trying to make the best of the season ahead.”

Arizona (2-2), fresh off a split series against the Chicago Cubs, is poised to challenge the Yankees with their new acquisition, pitcher Corbin Burnes, who signed a six-year, $210 million contract in the offseason. Burnes, who boasts a career ERA of 2.92, has historically performed well against the Yankees with a past two-game ERA of 2.45 against them.

“We expect Burnes to make a big impact from the start,” said Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo. “Having a pitcher of his caliber is crucial as we work through the early season.”

The first pitch at Yankee Stadium is slated for 7:05 p.m. ET. The latest betting odds from SportsLine show that Arizona is a slight -118 favorite on the moneyline, while New York stands as an underdog at -101. The over/under is set at 8.5 runs. Sports analysts predict the matchup will be a tightly contested affair.

Will Warren is set to make his seventh career start for the Yankees, having finished last season with a record of 4-1 and a 5.09 ERA. He’ll be looking for ample run support much like what Yankees pitchers enjoyed over the weekend, with the team scoring 20 runs in one game alone against the Brewers.

“I’m excited to get back out there again,” Warren stated. “I hope to build on what my teammates have done and keep the momentum going.”

The intrigue surrounding this matchup is not only due to the performances of the teams but also the unique equipment debate. The Yankees’ offense showcased with the ‘Torpedo’ bats has caught the attention of the league, and how it integrates into games against teams like Arizona will be under close scrutiny.

Fans will be eagerly watching how the Yankees continue to harness their newfound offense against a formidable pitcher and rival team as the season progresses.