Torpedo bats became one of the most talked-about topics when the season started, and many people were against it. But it made the game more entertaining, and that means that people were still watching the games. Using that bat, history was made by the New York Yankees after they hit 18 homers in the first 4 games and set a record. But there was another player who was setting records silently.
Another person who uses Torpedo bats is Cal Raleigh, and he is making history with the Mariners.
Cal Raleigh, the Mariners’ power-hitting switch catcher, has recently started using a torpedo bat, but only from the left side, where it suits his swing mechanics. Since adopting it, he has hit five home runs in 21 plate appearances from that side, posting a .333 batting average and a 1.603 OPS, showing a clear performance boost.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The bat, made of birch, is legal in MLB because it meets safety and material regulations, allowing a larger barrel without dangerous breakage. Raleigh’s selective use highlights his adaptability and focus on optimizing performance while maintaining safety.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
While the Yankees grabbed headlines with homers, Cal Raleigh quietly redefined consistency with strategic brilliance. Torpedo bats may divide opinion, but Raleigh’s numbers prove innovation sometimes outweighs tradition in baseball. If the league watches carefully, Raleigh might teach even skeptics how to hit history responsibly.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad