Marlins RF Giancarlo Stanton is among hitters experimenting with the Axe Bat, a "recent innovation in bat design making the rounds at spring training camps," according to Craig Davis of the South Florida SUN-SENTINEL. The bat features "an ergonomic ax-shaped handle touted for the dual purpose of reducing injuries and increasing performance." The Axe Bat "has an asymmetrical handle that tapers into a curved, angled end, which reduces stress on the hands and wrists." The axe-like handle "only extends" as far as the grip of the hitter's bottom hand. The bat "began attracting attention" last season after Red Sox 2B Dustin Pedroia "ordered one off the Axe website." Pedroia "saw his health and production improve while using the Axe." Stanton "has been experimenting with a customized model known as the Bigfoot this spring," but he "has yet to give a ringing endorsement." Reps of Axe and Victus bats, which build the wooden model of the bat, "have been touring" Spring Training camps "but recognize it will take time to catch on" (South Florida SUN-SENTINEL, 3/15).
MORE BALANCE FOR METS: SPORTSBUSINESS JOURNAL's Liz Mullen notes Mets LF Yoenis Céspedes "has signed a multiyear shoe and apparel deal with New Balance" after reaching a batting glove deal earlier this year with Franklin Baseball. New Balance replaces Mizuno, which "had a short-term deal" with Céspedes. He did not previously have a batting glove deal. New Balance GM/Sports Marketing Mark Cavanaugh said that the company "will use Céspedes in its marketing mix as it launches new products this summer and into the fall, including in digital and in-store advertisements." New Balance has deals with 13 other Mets players (SPORTSBUSINESS JOURNAL, 3/14 issue).
