We’re thrilled to share that Authentic Bats was featured in a recent NPR article covering one of the biggest stories in baseball this season — the rise of the torpedo bat.

In the piece titled “How do ‘torpedo bats’ work? We asked baseball physicists to explain”, NPR explores the unique science, physics, and momentum behind this cutting-edge design — one that’s now turning heads across MLB clubhouses and national media alike.

🔍 What is a Torpedo Bat?

Unlike traditional bats that gradually increase in diameter from handle to barrel, torpedo bats widen and then narrow again — resembling the silhouette of a bowling pin. This novel geometry is designed to shift weight closer to the hitter’s hands, reducing swing weight and improving bat control without sacrificing performance.

“If you lower the swing weight, you increase your swing speed — which is super important for batted ball speed,” explains Lloyd Smith, mechanical engineering professor at Washington State University, in the article.

⚾️ Why It Matters

As NPR notes, while some of baseball’s biggest stars still swing classic models, hitters across the league — from the Yankees to the Cubs, Rays, and beyond — have experimented with torpedo bats in spring training, BP, and even games. Analysts, physicists, and players are intrigued by its blend of science-backed innovation and on-field results.

“The bat’s design boosts one often-overlooked stat: confidence,” says Penn State acoustics professor Dan Russell. “If a hitter believes it works — it works.”

🔗 Our Role in the Movement

Here at Authentic Bats, we’ve pioneered our own version of the torpedo: the RPG Torpedo Bat. Designed for elite control, explosive speed, and barrel-driven dominance, the RPG is already becoming a favorite across college, travel, and pro ball.

Crafted to the exacting standards of David Chandler, our founder and one of the most revered batmakers in the game, every RPG model reflects our brand’s mission: Innovate. Elevate. Repeat.

🧠 Learn More, Swing Smarter

If you’re new to Authentic or curious how the RPG stacks up, we’ve built a few helpful resources:

📰 Want to Read the Full Article?

Click here to read the full story on NPR:
👉 How do ‘torpedo bats’ work? We asked baseball physicists to explain