During the New York Yankees’ season-opening series against the Milwaukee Brewers, a new design in baseball bats sparked controversy. The Yankees debuted what’s been dubbed 'torpedo' bats, which shift the barrel closer to the hands rather than keeping it traditionally near the end of the bat.

This change seemed to work wonders for the Yankees on Saturday, as they obliterated the Brewers with a franchise-record nine home runs and a 20-9 victory. However, Brewers closer Trevor Megill wasn’t impressed, labeling the bats "terrible," while also grudgingly admitting they were a "genius" invention.

"I think it’s terrible," Megill told The New York Post. "I’ve never seen anything like it before. It’s genius: Put the mass all in one spot. It might be bush [league]. It might not be. But it’s the Yankees, so they’ll let it slide." Ouch—someone’s not holding back.

For those wondering, the quirky bat design is entirely legal under MLB rules, which state that bats must be a smooth, round stick made of solid wood, with specific dimensions. Manufacturers also need MLB approval for any experimental designs. So, no rule-breaking here, but clearly, it’s ruffling feathers.

Not everyone in the Brewers' camp shared Megill’s disdain. First baseman Rhys Hoskins seemed more curious than critical. "They figured out a way to make it work," Hoskins said. "Logically, it makes a lot of sense, but I’m not a physicist. I’d try it, though. Just because it worked for somebody doesn’t mean it’ll work for everybody. Hitting is such a feel thing." Hoskins even mentioned reaching out to bat companies to experiment with the design himself.

Meanwhile, former Yankee and current Brewer Nestor Cortes, who gave up eight earned runs during Saturday’s game, seemed unfazed. "That's nothing new to me," said Cortes. "I know a few guys did it last year. I get the science and technology behind it. It doesn’t really bother me." Spoken like a guy who’s seen it all.

While the debate continues, the Yankees wrapped up the series in style, cruising to a 12-3 win on Sunday to complete a three-game sweep of the Brewers. Love them or hate them, those torpedo bats seem to pack a punch.

Brewers News

Brewers' Trevor Megill Rails Against Yankees' 'Torpedo' Bats: 'Think It's Terrible'