MLB legend says torpedo bats could lead to higher batting averages
Baseball Hall of Famer Fergie Jenkins recently joined the ongoing discussion about the use of torpedo bats in the big leagues, following the New York Yankees’ strong performance over opening weekend. During an appearance on OutKick’s “The Ricky Cobb Show,” Jenkins, 82, shared his thoughts on how torpedo bats have become the latest innovation in the sport and how they could potentially favor hitters.
Reflecting on his playing days in the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s, Jenkins noted that pitchers were once dominant in the game but have now taken a backseat to hitters. He highlighted various rule changes that have been implemented over the years to benefit hitters, such as the use of a clock, larger bases, and an oversized glove for sliding into bases.
In addition to these rule changes, Jenkins discussed how torpedo bats provide hitters with a larger hitting surface, potentially resulting in better contact and increased power. He predicted that the use of torpedo bats could lead to a rise in batting averages for players, with some potentially seeing a 20-point increase in their averages.
While the overall hitting surface of a torpedo bat remains the same, the barrel of the bat is shifted to a different location, allowing hitters to make contact at the thickest part of the bat. Jenkins suggested that this adjustment could result in players achieving better contact and hitting the ball further.
Jenkins also pointed out that the popularity of torpedo bats is on the rise, with more players opting to use them during games. He predicted that before the All-Star break, many teams would have several hitters using torpedo bats in their lineups.
Despite not having to deal with these new rules during his playing career, Jenkins acknowledged the impact that torpedo bats could have on the game. He reminisced about his time pitching for teams like the Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, Boston Red Sox, and Philadelphia Phillies, where he achieved great success, including winning the 1971 NL Cy Young Award and being named an All-Star three times.
As torpedo bats continue to make waves in the baseball world, players like Giancarlo Stanton of the New York Yankees have already seen success using them, with Stanton hitting seven home runs in 14 games during the postseason.
In conclusion, Jenkins’ insights shed light on the evolving landscape of baseball and how innovations like torpedo bats are shaping the game. As players adapt to these changes, it will be interesting to see how the use of torpedo bats impacts the sport in the long run.
