Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Matt Strahm has voiced support for allowing pitchers to use pine tar, responding to the increasing prevalence of ‘torpedo bats’ in Major League Baseball (MLB). These uniquely designed bats have contributed to a surge in home runs, notably with the New York Yankees setting an MLB record of 18 home runs in their first four games.

Strahm expressed his views on social media platform X, stating, “Let them use whatever bat they want. Let’s just allow pitchers to use whatever hitters have in the on deck circle, and not check us like we are criminals every time we walk on or off the field.” He emphasized that better grip aids in swinging harder, suggesting that pitchers should have similar allowances for grip-enhancing substances.

MLB has enforced strict regulations against pitchers using foreign substances, implementing routine checks that have led to ejections and suspensions. Strahm’s comments highlight the ongoing debate about maintaining a balance between offensive and defensive advantages in the sport.

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