Question: I’m an MLB fan and have been reading a lot of hype about what they call “torpedo bats.” So I was wondering, what is the real science (if any) behind the claims? — TL, Queens NY
Answer: The claims, of course, are that this design produces hits that fly farther and are more accurate. There are some scientific reasons to support that claim, but the truth is that they haven’t been in use long enough to get reliable statistics — and MLB is very much a statistics-driven operation.
The graphic shows the differences between a standard bat and a torpedo bat. Shifting the center of mass (COM) and center of percussion (COP) toward the grip accomplishes two scientifically indisputable results:
- The bat can be swung faster because its moment of inertia has been reduced. The faster the speed of the bat at the time of impact with the ball, the greater the speed imparted to the ball. The average MLB bat speed at impact is 72 mph. The speed of the ball before impact averages 95 mph. The speed of the ball after impact averages 90 mph … whether that results in a home run depends of several factors, but certainly a faster swing will result in greater distance (other factors being equal).
- The COP (aka “sweet spot”) is moved to a position where the batter has greater control of the bat and thus ball trajectory. This is because the sweet spot is now closer to the batter’s hands and can be repositioned more quickly. Hitting the ball at the COP transfers more energy to the ball. Further, when the ball impacts the sweet spot, little vibration is transferred to the hands on the grip, avoiding what is called a “stinger.”
The design is totally legal. In the American major leagues, Rule 1.10(a) states:
The bat shall be a smooth, round stick not more than 2.61 inches (6.6 cm) in diameter at the thickest part and no more than 42 inches (1.067 m) in length.
Perhaps surprisingly, MLB rules do not specify the weight of the bat. Historically bats approaching 3 pounds were swung. Today, bats of 33 ounces are common, topping out at 34 to 36 ounces. Aluminum and composite bats are not allowed in the major leagues.
So do they work? The theoretical promise is there. But it’ll take a few more years of statistics to decide the issue. Some MLB players swear it improved their game, others saw no increase in performance. But there’s no question the league is interested in experimenting with it.
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