The New York Yankees recently shattered a home run record, with the controversial Torpedo Bats playing a significant role. However, Aaron Judge wasted no time making it clear that he won’t be using them at any point during the 2025 season.

Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees in action against the Milwaukee Brewers at Yankee Stadium on March 27, 2025 in New York City. New York Yankees defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 4-2.

© Getty Images Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees in action against the Milwaukee Brewers at Yankee Stadium on March 27, 2025 in New York City. New York Yankees defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 4-2.

Aaron Judge played a key role in an electrifying showdown between the New York Yankees and the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 2 of the season. The Yankees put on a power-hitting display, recording nine home runs as a team, while Judge had a standout performance of his own, launching his first grand slam of the year.

In a recent statement about the controversial Torpedo Bats, Judge made it clear that he has no intention of using them, stating, “What I’ve done the past couple of seasons speaks for itself.” While he didn’t criticize his Yankees‘ teammates for using them—most notably Anthony Volpe and Jazz Chisholm Jr., who were seen swinging the bats—Judge remains confident in his own approach.

During Game 2, Volpe made the most of the Torpedo Bat, not only hitting a home run but also finishing the game with a .250 average and a .400 OBP. Chisholm Jr. posted identical stats, going 1-for-5 at the plate while cameras clearly showed him using the custom bats throughout the game.

Judge’s confidence in his own ability is backed up by his recent performances. In 2024, he led MLB in home runs with 58, finishing four ahead of Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani. However, criticism of the Torpedo Bats has not died down, with some calling for the league to ban them altogether.

Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees

Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees hits a grand slam home run in the third inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Yankee Stadium on March 29, 2025 in New York City.

Are the Yankees’ Torpedo Bats Legal?

According to Yankees beat writer Chris Kirschner of The Athletic, the bats are completely within the rules. “The shape of the bat does not violate the rules, per a league spokesperson,” Kirschner reported. Despite their unusual design, the bats remain approved for use, meaning the Yankees will continue to wield them.

Internet Reactions Are Overwhelmingly Negative

The Yankees’ use of the Torpedo Bats has sparked a wave of reactions online, with memes and criticism flooding social media. Some fans have jokingly suggested that the Bombers should be forced to use toothpicks instead, while others argue that the bats are legal and fair, especially since other MLB players have started using them as well.