Baseball commissioner Robert Manfred endorses 'torpedo' bats as beneficial for the sport
Hear Ya Go, Here's the Lowdown on MLB's Controversial 'Torpedo' Bats
Rob Manfred ain't afraid to stir the pot, and his claims that "torpedo" bats are the future of baseball have got everyone talking. In a recent chat with the New York Times, he called these bats "bloody marvelous" for the sport.
"People go bonkers over this bat mess, and I love it. It shows baseball's still alive and kicking in our culture," Manfred said.
The "torpedo" bat, or the "bowling pin" bat as some call it, gained a spotlight after the New York Yankees smashed 18 home runs in their opening four games, setting a new MLB record. Credit for this design goes to Miami Marlins field coordinator and MIT-trained physicist Aaron "Lenny" Leanhardt. He moved the wood from the tip of the regular bat to the label area, where players usually connect with the ball. The idea was to customize the "sweet spot" for each player.
Some folks wondered why nobody thought of it before, while others reckoned it's downright cheating. But MLB gave the bats their seal of approval. Players are now taking swings with these torpedoes during games.
"These bats comply with the rules," Manfred confirmed. "Players have been tweaking their bats' sweet spots for years, but it's a darn sight more interesting when it's in the open."
Unexpected Tech in the Infield: "Torpedo" Bats Pros and Cons
- Advantageous Design: The "torpedo" bat's design makes it easier to swing and increases the contact area.
- Launched with Force: Yankees' homers in their debut games prove the bats can deliver a mean wallop.
- Occasional Disadvantages: Some players may find them heavy or uncomfortable.
Robot Umpires on Deck: 2026 Aim
Manfred also discussed the introduction of AI umpires. He hinted they could join the majors in 2026, pending owner approval.
The Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system was tested in minor leagues last year and during spring training this season. During the ABS system, if an umpire calls a ball or strike incorrectly, a challenge can be made, and the pitch location is reviewed with Hawk-Eye technology. It's back in the minors this season, but major league pitches are yet to be reviewable.
"I think the owners made a shrewd move trialin' the challenge system first. Now, I'm hopin' we bring it to the big leagues ASAP," Manfred said.
Players and umpires have different opinions on the AI umpires.
"It keeps tradition in the game," Manfred added. "But at least it gives players a chance to correct a bad call that could cost 'em a game."
- Some people alluded to the idea that the 'torpedo' bats may have an unfair advantage, questioning why nobody thought of the innovative design before.
- In the year 2025, Rob Manfred, the MLB commissioner, plans to introduce AI umpires to professional baseball, aiming for their debut in 2026, pending owner approval.
- During a dialogue about the possible impact of AI umpires, Manfred compared the challenge system to players adjusting their bats' sweet spots, asserting that it adds more interest to the game when adjustments are in the open.
