Bat Length and Weight
- Weight: Bat weight is measured in ounces. Heavier bats provide more power, while lighter bats enable faster swing speeds.
- Length: Longer bats provide greater reach and ability to connect with pitches on the other side of the plate, but the added weight can reduce swing speed and power.
- Drop: A bat’s “drop” is a negative number describing the bat’s length-to-weight ratio. For example, a 34-inch bat that weighs 28 ounces has a drop of -6. Different leagues have varying drop standards and limits for play.
Size guide and league standards
Aluminum BatsReturn to top
Aluminum bats are the most commonly used bat for non-professional baseball players, due to their lighter weight and durability.
- Available in single or double-layer construction, with double-layer bats offering greater power and rebound.
- Made from a variety of alloys, which differ by their strength and weight.
- Do not require any break-in period.
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Composite BatsReturn to top
Composite bats use the latest in bat technology, made from a combination of graphite, fiberglass, and resin.
- Lighter than aluminum bats, increasing swing speed and power.
- Largest sweet spots and best balance compared to other bat materials.
- Typically require a break-in period, but their performance improves over time.
- For best performance, do not use in cold weather conditions.
Be sure to check league regulations before purchasing a composite bat.
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Wood BatsReturn to top
Although the sound of a wood bat hitting a baseball has become iconic, wood bats are typically only used by professionals and wood-bat-only leagues.
- Offer more choices in shape and taper to customize to a player’s swing.
- Great for training proper swing form.
- Have a tendency to break, smaller sweet spot, and less hitting power than metal bats.
- Softball players do not use wood bats.
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BBCOR-Certified batsReturn to top
Baseball players at the high school and college level are often required to play with a BBCOR-certified bat.
- The Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution (BBCOR) standard is a measure of how much energy the bat releases when hitting the ball.
- This standard levels the playing field by ensuring uniform performance across metal baseball bats.
Be sure to check league regulations before purchasing a composite bat.
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