Giancarlo Stanton has denied that the use of torpedo bats is responsible for his elbow injuries, despite the ongoing speculation. The innovative bats have been a significant factor in the Yankees’ early-season success, with multiple players using them to hit a record number of home runs. While Stanton plans to continue using the torpedo bats upon his return, the debate over their impact on player health continues.
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New York Yankees slugger Giancarlo Stanton has been a key figure in the ongoing debate surrounding the use of torpedo bats in Major League Baseball (MLB). Despite suffering from elbow pain that has sidelined him for the start of the 2025 season, Stanton has denied that the innovative bats are responsible for his injuries.
Stanton’s Stance on Torpedo Bats
Stanton, who began using torpedo bats last season, has been vocal about his continued support for the new bat design. During a recent interview, he stated that he plans to use the torpedo bat upon his return from injury, though he declined to comment on whether he believed the bats contributed to his current elbow issues. Stanton’s injury has led to speculation that the unique design of the torpedo bats, which feature more wood lower down the barrel, might be causing strain on players’ elbows.
The Success and Controversy of Torpedo Bats
Torpedo bats have garnered significant attention due to their association with the Yankees’ record-breaking performance in their season-opening series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Players like Cody Bellinger, Jazz Chisholm Jr., Paul Goldschmidt, Anthony Volpe, and Austin Wells used torpedo bats to hit a combined nine home runs during the series. The bats were developed by Aaron Leonhardt, a former Yankees front-office staffer and MIT physicist, who aimed to create a bat that better matched the hitting mechanics of modern players.
MLB’s Stance on Torpedo Bats
MLB has confirmed that torpedo bats comply with all league regulations, which state that bats must be smooth, round sticks not exceeding 2.61 inches in diameter at the thickest part and no more than 42 inches in length. The success of the bats has led to increased interest from other teams, with the Atlanta Braves reportedly placing an order for torpedo bats following the Yankees’ impressive display.
Stanton’s Injury and Recovery
Stanton, who hit .273 with seven home runs and 16 RBIs during the 2024 postseason, has been dealing with elbow pain since January. He has undergone multiple rounds of platelet-rich plasma injections and has started hitting with the Trajekt machine to simulate high-velocity pitching. Stanton’s recovery timeline remains uncertain, but he is expected to need a minor league rehab assignment before returning to the Yankees’ lineup.
