MLB News: Padres star Manny Machado shares honest thoughts on Yankees’ use of torpedo bats

The new MLB season is off to a strong start, with teams already showcasing their potential in the first few matchups. Alongside the Los Angeles Dodgers, the San Diego Padres are making a strong debut against the Atlanta Braves, with Manny Machado in impressive form. However, the New York Yankees have raised some concerns regarding their offensive effectiveness, particularly with their torpedo bats.

Since their season opener, the Yankees have been one of the top-hitting teams in the league. With 36 runs scored and over 25 hits, they currently lead the American League East with a 3-0 record. They’ll look to extend their winning streak when they face the Arizona Diamondbacks on Tuesday.

The Yankees’ offensive explosion has been fueled by their controversial new torpedo bats, which are generating plenty of buzz. While their hitters have enjoyed a strong start to the season, the debate around the bats has sparked reactions across social media and the media at large.

One such reaction came from Padres star, who, while preparing for Sunday’s game against the Braves, commented on the Yankees’ newfound power. “I have no idea what those are [torpedo bats], but they should send a few over here if they’re going to be hitting homers like that,” Machado said.

The torpedo bats used by some New York Yankees players against the Milwaukee Brewers.

Yankees’ torpedo bats ignite controversy

The Yankees have been generating significant buzz with their use of torpedo bats, which feature unique dimensions and an appearance that resembles a torpedo. In their first three games, the Yankees have blasted 15 home runs, fueling speculation that the bats may be giving them an edge. While the size and shape of the bats could provide some advantages, there are other factors at play.

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As the controversy surrounding these new bats intensifies, particularly from teams that aren’t using them, the Yankees are conducting tests to see how effective the bats can be. So far, the results have been promising, with the Yankees racking up over 32 runs in their opening three games.

Despite the buzz, the MLB has clarified that the bats are not illegal. According to the league, the design does not violate any regulations, meaning other teams will have to face off against the Yankees and their new hitting tool, or competing with it, as they can use it too.

Reactions to the Yankees’ torpedo bats

Among the many reactions to the Yankees’ use of the torpedo bats, one came from their captain, Aaron Judge, who expressed the team’s readiness to continue using them. Alongside Judge, Orioles hitting coach Cody Asche weighed in on the debate, suggesting that the concept of mass in the sweet spot isn’t unique to the Yankees.

“Where you hit the ball, putting more mass in the sweet spot— I think that’s not something that’s unique to the Yankees,” Asche remarked. White Sox manager Will Venable also shared his thoughts, noting that the new bats may prompt other teams to explore similar tools. “I think that everyone across the league is probably now going to be looking into using these,” Venable said.