Brandt Snedeker makes a bold putter switch, finds success PALM HARBOR, Fla. – Brandt Snedeker, known for his fascination with statistical analysis, noticed a pattern among PGA Tour winners this season: nearly all were using a mallet putter, specifically the TaylorMade Spider model. This observation led him to question his own equipment, prompting a switch from his long-time Odyssey Rossie 2 putter. “If you're not paying attention to that, you're doing yourself a disservice,” he said, acknowledging the potential significance of the trend. After experimenting with a custom Spider putter at home, Snedeker decided to test it during the Puerto Rico Open two weeks ago. Initially skeptical, he found himself putting more consistently, particularly within six to eight feet. “Putted really well, just nothing wanted to go in,” he admitted, but the results encouraged him to continue using the new putter. His confidence grew during a recent round at the Valspar Championship, where he posted a 6-under 65 at Innisbrook Resort’s Copperhead Course. The performance placed him one stroke behind the early first-round lead held by Sungjae Im. The switch appeared to pay off, as Snedeker ranked first in Strokes Gained: Putting on Thursday, gaining nearly five shots on the field. This marked his lowest round at Innisbrook in 49 career starts, a testament to the putter’s impact. Despite a recent slump in form—missing the cut at all four of his previous tournaments this season—Snedeker attributed his struggles to his short game. “Just wasn't putting up to my standard,” he said, emphasizing the critical role his putting has played in his career. A 50-foot birdie putt at the 12th hole highlighted the new putter’s effectiveness, contributing to his strong performance.#puerto_rico_open #brandt_snedeker #valspar_championship #taylormade_spider #innisbrook_resort
