“Let pitchers use what hitters use�? Phillies�?Matt Strahm reacts on Torpedo bat controversy

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Apr 3, 2025, 11:08 IST

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Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Matt Strahm has called for pitchers to use the same gripping aids as hitters, arguing for fairness in the game. Meanwhile, MLB legend CC Sabathia downplayed the controversy over the New York Yankees' torpedo bats, saying they have been in use for years without issue.

“Let pitchers use what hitters use�? Phillies�?Matt Strahm reacts on Torpedo bat controversy

Phillies�?Matt Strahm reacts on Torpedo bat controversy(Image Source: Getty)

While the New York Yankees�?Torpedo bats are trending everywhere, and even as they can set an MLB record with at least 18 home runs in just the first four games, Matt Strahm, a pitcher with the Philadelphia Phillies has decided to match the level, by asking for the pitchers to have the freedom to use what they feel like.

Phillies�?Matt Strahm calls for equal treatment

Taking to X, Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Matt Strahm said that pitchers should be allowed to use whatever hitters want. Strahm said:

“Let them use whatever bat they want. Let’s just allow pitchers to use whatever hitters have in the deck circle. And not check us like we are criminals every time we walk on or off the field. I’m just a pitcher but I’m assuming better grip helps ya swing harder…�?/span>

Further, when a fan agreed to Strahm, and said that pitchers should be allowed to use the “sticky stuff,�?Strahm responded and said that it wasn’t sticky, but whatever a hitter can use to grip a bat, pitchers can as well. He said:
“Not sticky because some of that stuff was a bit much. Just whatever a hitter can use to grip a bat better we can use too.�?/span>
Torpedo bats are uniquely shaped, with weight around the spot that hits the ball. These bats, that are legal but controversial, have worked in the favor of the New York Yankees.

MLB Legend CC Sabathia weighs in on Torpedo bats

Meanwhile, MLB legend and Hall of Famer pitcher, CC Sabathia also spoke to USA TODAY where he spoke about the controversial torpedo bats. He spoke about the game between the New York Yankees and Milwaukee Brewers.
"I feel like it's a little overplayed, The bats are three years old. I've been working in the Yankees organization…When we did the presentation a couple of years ago, I didn't think anything of it.�?/span>
Further, CC Sabathia added:
"There were a lot of excuses going on from the guys with the Brewers, but they were throwing balls right down the middle.�?/span>
He said that
"I think that I could have probably got a hit the day that Cortes Nestor was pitching, when they hit the nine homers.�?/span>
Also Read: “Makes A Lot Of Sense�? Yankees�?Giancarlo Stanton Defends Controversial Torpedo Bats Amid Elbow Injury

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TOI Sports Desk

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