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The Best Youth Baseball Bats for USA and USSSA 2021

If your young baseball slugger is looking for the best baseball bat to step into the box with, look no further than our best youth baseball bats for USA and USSSA in 2021, sorted by bat drop for age. These bats will have your tee ball, little league or travel team player hitting like an all-star.

Before you start:

• Learn How to Choose the Correct Baseball Bat
• What Is The Difference Between USA and USSSA Youth Baseball Bats?
• The Best Youth Baseball Hitting Aids
• Why You Should Trust Us
• Affiliate Disclosure

The Best Youth Baseball Bats of 2021

Best drop 5 usa bat.

Easton ADV 360 -5 USA Youth

The “hottest” usa baseball bat on the market..

The Easton ADV 360 is the best -5 length to weight ratio bat on the market for 13U & 14U baseball players because it is loaded with pop, has a huge sweet spot and has no sting. It is the most advanced two-piece composite bat in the game and will give your youth hitter a power advantage with a balanced feel.

Buying Options

• League: USA Youth Drop 5
• Construction: Two-Piece
• Material: Composite
• Barrel Size: 2 5/8″
• Swing Feel: Balanced
• Hitting Style: Line Drive or Power

Reasons to Buy

✅ Great combination of balance and power ✅ Huge sweet spot on the barrel ✅ “Hottest” bat on the market ✅ No sting

Reasons Not to Buy

❌ Users have noted connection point issues between the two pieces

Best Drop 5 USSSA Bat

DeMarini CF Zen -5 USSSA Youth

The preferred bat of elite travel ball players for bat control and power..

If your 13U ballplayer came to the field to hit dingers, the DeMarini CF Zen should be in your bat bag. That bat has so much pop and a large sweet spot your ballplayer should get used to putting balls over the fence. If you want to turn a warning track player into a legit home run threat, buy this bat. Far and away better than competing youth baseball bats.

• League: USSSA Youth Drop 5
• Material: Paraflex + Composite
• Barrel Size: 2 3/4″

✅ Perfect blend of bat speed, barrel control and power ✅ Huge sweet spot on the barrel ✅ Buy if you want to jack homers ✅ Reduced barrel vibration

❌ Users have noted bat wrapping peeling and broken bats within months of purchase

Best Drop 8 USA Bat

Easton adv 360 -8 usa youth.

The Easton ADV 360 is the best -8 length to weight ratio bat on the market for 13U & 14U baseball players because it is loaded with pop, has a huge sweet spot and has no sting. It is the most advanced two-piece composite bat in the game and will give your youth hitter a power advantage with a balanced feel.

• League: USA Youth Drop 8

Best Drop 8 USSSA Bat

Demarini cf zen -8 usssa youth.

If your 12U ballplayer came to the field to hit dingers, the DeMarini CF Zen should be in their bat bag. That bat has so much pop and a large sweet spot your ballplayer should get used to putting balls over the fence. If you want to turn a warning track player into a legit home run threat, buy this bat. Far and away better than competing youth baseball bats.

• League: USSSA Youth Drop 8

Best Drop 10 USA Bat

Louisville Slugger Select -10 USA Youth

Louisville slugger consistently produces high-performing bats with pop and power..

The Louisville Slugger has been a staple in players’ equipment bags every year. Their bats are built for 10U hitters who want to increase swing speed and bat control. Take your game to the next level with this bat that holds a ton of pop and potential.

• League: USA Youth Drop 10
• Construction: Three-Piece
• Material: Composite/Alloy Hybrid
• Hitting Style: Line Drive

✅ Tons of pop ✅ Well-balanced swing through the strike zone ✅ Zero hand shock due to three-piece construction

❌ No user issues found

Best Drop 10 USSSA Bat

Marucci Posey28 -10 USSSA Youth

You’re sure to gain some attention mashing with this bat..

The Marucci Posey28 is an amazing bat, especially if you’re looking for a more durable one-piece because you’re not a fan of two-piece composites. The premium alloy of this bat makes it durable, provides a loud pop and ensures it is hot right out of the wrapper. Weight is equally distributed throughout the bat and provides lots of power.

• League: USSSA Youth Drop 10
• Construction: One-Piece
• Material: Alloy

✅ Extended barrel and responsive sweet spot ✅ Marucci wood grain cosmetics ✅ One-piece bats typically designed for mashers ✅ Built to last

❌ Not ideal for those looking for an end-load feel

Best Drop 12 USA Bat

Rawlings Quatro Pro -12 USA Youth

Combines power with a balanced swing for explosive results..

Looking for an ultra-light bat for your 8U ballplayers? The Rawlings Quantro Pro is a lightweight bat option that will help your ballplayer keep a balanced swing. This will give your young hitter the bat speed they need to produce some pop and results.

• League: USA Youth Drop 12
• Hitting Style: Contact or Line Drive

✅ A lightweight bat that produces quality contact ✅ Well-balanced swing through the strike zone ✅ Most users report a comfortable grip and no vibration

❌ Users reported it sounds like a broken wood bat ❌ Bat takes a while to break in before producing pop ❌ Users have reported disc issues within the barrel

Best Drop 12 USSSA Bat

Easton Maxum 360 -12 USSSA Youth

Smoke line drives all around the diamond with this one-piece composite..

Coming hot out of the wrapper and getting better with more hits, this Easton Maxum helps your young batter drive the ball with tons of distance. A comfortable feel and grip wrap will ensure no stinging and the one-piece design will provide a balanced swing.

• League: USSSA Youth Drop 12

✅ “Hot” out of the wrapper ✅ Balanced swing ✅ Huge barrel

❌ Users reported bat cracking within the first couple of months

Best Budget USA Bat

Louisville Slugger Omaha USA Youth

Optimized swing weight and length for a perfect balance..

The Louisville Slugger Omaha has been a staple that has been crafted and used by successful batters year-in and year-out. The price of the Omaha bat is typically less than other high-performing youth baseball bats. The balanced feel and swing of this bat will give you the best batting average on the team.

• League: USA Youth
• Hitting Style: Contact

❌ Users reported less pop than other bats – Not for power hitters ❌ Annoyingly loud ❌ Some users reported stinging vibration on mishits

Best Budget USSSA Bat

Rawlings 5150 USSSA Youth

This bat is as good or better than bats twice its price..

If you’re wanting budget youth baseball bats that still produce a ton of power look no further than the Rawlings 5150. The one-piece alloy construction provides a balanced swing with a focus on bat speed. If you can’t afford the expensive DeMarini, Louisville Slugger or Easton models, you can’t go wrong with this Rawlings.

• League: USSSA Youth

✅ Great budget bat with pop ✅ Blows away bats twice its price

❌ Budget bat, so you will get better results with more expensive options

Best Tee Ball Bat

Marucci CAT Tee Ball

Let your tee ball player taste success and build a love for the game..

You want your young t-ball player to build a love for the game and stick with it and the comfortable grip and solid thump of this bat will have him yearning for more cage time.

• League: Tee Ball

✅ Lightweight for tee ball players ✅ Comfortable grip ✅ Solid pop for 4-5 year olds

❌ No reason to not buy this tee ball bat unless you want to save money elsewhere

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The Ultimate List of Best BBCOR Bats for 2023

Once your son is about to age out of 13U or enter into the 14U or high school season, parents should start the transition from youth baseball bats and begin looking for the best BBCOR baseball bats. But what are the right BBCOR bats for 14 year olds? And what should you be looking for when making your purchase?

To help you get started, we’ve put together the ultimate list of best BBCOR bats 2022 for young players 13 and up.  

Top 7 BBCOR Bats for 2022 and 2023 Season

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With all of these two factors in mind, you should be able to narrow down your options and find the perfect BBCOR bat.

Quick Disclosure:

Note: The products discussed on our site are independently selected. At no extra cost to you, things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Composite Baseball Bats

The best composite BBCOR bats are made with a combination of carbon fiber and Kevlar. This construction makes for a bat that is extremely strong and durable. Composite bats also have the ability to store more energy, which results in a faster batted ball speed.

This results in a massive sweet spot for a sweeter explosion of the ball off the bat. As the composite baseball bat typically  have a lighter swing weight to truly deliver a  tremendous power  due to the carbon fiber polymer used in the bat construction. One downside of composite bats is that they are typically more expensive than aluminum/alloy bats.

Additionally, composite bats may require a break-in period before they are ready to be used in game situations.

Newly Released 2022 Composite Baseball Bats

Louisville Slugger

2022 Louisville Slugger Meta BBCOR Baseball Bat

• Length: 31-34
• Drop -3 BBCOR
• 3FX Connection System
• EKO Composite Barrel
• Massive Sweet Spot
• Balance Swing Weight
• LS Pro Comfort Grip
• Premium GT1 End Cap
• Three Piece Composite Barrel

Balanced 2022 Louisville Slugger BBCOR BAT

Considered the BEST BALANCED Composite Bat for CONTACT HITTERS

2022 Meta BBCOR Bat User Reviews

“The spectacular META is back !!! – I was indecisive between buying the -3 BBCOR 2022 Voodoo One or the BBCOR 2022 Meta, I have always been a fan of DeMarini and Louisville. My son used the Louisville Slugger Meta BBCOR 2020 (Blue) 32″/ 29oz for a long time, until that is too small for him (I feel a lot of nostalgia, that bat for good!), I left behind the bad reviews that the Meta 2021 had and I decided on the Meta 2022 in 33″/ 20oz, after hitting hundreds of balls in batting cages and some on the field, I dare to say that I made the best of the choice, the feeling when hitting the ball, the force it produces and its balanced swing, confirm that it was the best I could buy!”

“Best Choice Of My Life – I bought this a month ago and I’m so happy with the results. I’ve hit 3 home runs since I bought it and I can’t stop roping the ball into the gap, best bat on the market.”

“This is a really good bat for the kids transitioning into big boy baseball.”

2022 Louisville Slugger Meta is lightweight and balanced bat and is designed to be perfect for those who are contact hitters.

Almost no history of any durability issues.

The sweet spot on this barrel is massive, and you won’t have any vibrations on a mis-hit. With great performance of the bat also comes a great sound!

The two most comparable bats would be the DeMarini CF and Easton Hype.

2022 Louisville Slugger Meta has a high price point but still is in high demand! Don’t expect it to drop anytime soon.

Major difference between 2022 vs 2021 is the paint job. Very little change in performance.

If you want to save some $$ you may want to consider the 2021 Louisville Slugger Meta .

Marucci Cat Series

2023 Marucci Cat X Composite

• Length: 32-33
• Two-Piece Composite Baseball Bat
• Slightly End-Loaded / Balanced Swing Weight
• MDX Composite Material – Ultra Responsive Design
• Outer-Locking System – Creates the stiffest connection point amongst all composite baseball bats
• Ring-Free Barrel Construction
• Custom-Molded Handle Taper
• Micro-Perforated Bat Grip

Balanced Composite BBCOR

Perfect for All Hitters; Definitely an Upgrade over Cat9

2023 Marucci Cat X User Reviews – Coming!

“This BBCOR will be hot off the line. I will update as I come across them and when I get my son to test one out. From the user reviews I am reading this picks up right wear the Marucci Cat9 -3 BBCOR left off. People are saying they are hitting nukes with this BBCOR bat! More to come! “

The Cat X Composite is a Balanced with a Slight End Load for Power.

The stiff S-40 handle is a direct improvement as it helps with the transfer of energy from the end of the hitters bat unleashing more power with every swing.

The custom molded handle taper provides a better feel and more bat control thus overall better production for each swing.

The Marucci Cat9 Composite was considered an elite BBCOR on the market and we have no doubt the CatX performance will be better!

The two most comparable bats would be the Rawlings Quatro and Louisville Slugger Meta.

This will be at a premium price point and high in demand. If you find one better pick it up.

Marucci Cat Connect Series

2023 Marucci Cat X Connect Baseball Bat

• Two-Piece Hybrid Baseball Bat
• End-Loaded Swing Weight
• AZR Alloy Barrel
• S-40 Handle – Stiffer & More Powerful

Balanced Hybrid BBCOR

Perfect for Stronger Hitters; Definitely an Upgrade over Cat9 Connect

2023 Marucci Cat X User Reviews

“ The swing weight is so much more different than the cat 9 it doesn’t even feel like the same bat. I would argue that the cat X is better than the voodoo one from demarini. “

The most important feature of the CatX connect is the swing weight. Balanced with a Slight End Load for Power allowing for stronger hitters to expect more POP with their swings.

Hot out of the wrapper and boast a noticeably larger sweet spot!

The composite S-40 handle give hitters that stiffer feel on contact that generate more power on every swing.

The two most comparable bats would be the Voodoo One and Louisville Slugger Meta.

Slight end load may cause younger, smaller players issues as the bat may be too heavy. They will require time to get used to weight and feel.

DeMarini ZOA BBCOR Baseball Bat

• Length: 30-34
• Stiff Composite Handle with Light Swing Weight
• Stiff Feel for Maximum Energy Transfer
• Massive Barrel with Huge Sweet Spot
• Balanced Swing Weight
• Two Piece Bat

Balanced 2022 BBCOR Bat

Great high performance composite bat for POWER and CONTACT HITTERS

DeMarini Zoa BBCOR User Reviews

“ Worth every penny –  With the first few swings with this bat my exit speed significantly increased with such great barrel performance. When swinging this -3 BBCOR baseball bat it feels very smooth going through the zone. When you make contact with the ball of the bat it sounds so good. This is the best BBCOR bat i have swung in my life.”

“ Great Pop –  Good pop. Rivals the connect marucci cat9 either a great choice but balance Zoa wins. With this bat. Do NOT use for BP. It should only be used for games. There are only so many swings on the barrel. Bat will need to be broke in with about 200 swings before it’s primed. Remember to rotate the barrel each swing during break in period.”

“My son, a slugger, loves this bat!” 

DeMarini Zoa introduces new technology in two piece composite construction.

Balanced with a Slight End Load for Power. The sweet spot on this barrel is massive for greater contact.

You won’t have any vibrations on a mis-hit due to Anaomaly end cap.

Considered one of the best BBCOR on the market.

The two most comparable bats would be the DeMarini CF and Louisville Slugger Meta.

DeMarini ZOA has a high price point putting it in top of premium budget range.

DeMarini CF BBCOR Baseball Bat

• Two Piece Composite Bat

Biggest Competitor against the Louisville Slugger Meta

DeMarini CF BBCOR User Reviews

“This is one of the best bats for 2022. Bought for my son and performs great. Was looking for The Goods, but they’re almost impossible to find. The price is a little steep but you get what you pay for. Just remember a $500 bat doesn’t fix a $5 swing.”

“My son like this bat and the hitting feels very level.”

DeMarini CF has been considered to be one of the best BBCOR bats for several years.

Balanced and lightweight which is great for contact hitters!

You won’t have any vibrations on a mis-hit due to Reaction end cap to increase barrel performance.

The two most comparable bats would be the Marucci Cat X and Louisville Slugger Meta.

Not many issues you should really know about. The only thing is really if you don’t mind having the latest than you may want to consider last years 2021 DeMarini CF bat.

Maxum Ultra BBCOR Baseball Bat

• One Piece XXL Barrel designed for a massive sweet spot; Perfect for Power Hitters
• Premium Grip for Cushion and Tack
• Re Balanced Swing Weight for Speed and Power
• One Piece Bat

Balanced BBCOR BAT 2021 Model

Largest Power Loaded Barrel for Power Hitters

Easton Maxum Ultra BBCOR User Reviews

“Best -3 BBCOR bat for the Money Bar None – My son recently moved up to the big field after using a Louisville Prime USA composite two piece bat that had massive pop. We were looking for a composite bat that might have similar pop. We initially chose the 2020 Maxum 360 which was a one piece bat with a very balanced swing weight.

It got great reviews but based on what I saw from my son using it, the bat just seemed dead out of the gate. After a short time the bat started to rattle and Easton ended up replacing with the 2021 Maxum Ultra. I was very hesitant and got a Louisville Slugger Meta PWR as a backup just in case. Cut to the chase, this Maxum Ultra is less balanced and more end loaded and is LOADED with pop.

The ball just flies of my sons bat. He’s 13, around 5’4 and 125. He’s not a huge kid by any stretch, but the ball seems to come hot off his bat with every swing. My son has tried the Victus Nox, Rawling Quatro, LS Meta and Marucci Cat8 bats but this bat has by far the best pop. Save your money and invest in the 2021 Easton Maxum Ultra, which can be bought for about $150 less than the big boys in the composite bat space.”

Easton Maxum Ultra has the biggest barrel lengths on the market…again.

It is a one piece composite giving it more strength and stiffness for that perfect combination of power and speed.

The Slight End Load on the barrel is what gives it that power swing weight power hitters are looking for.

The two most comparable bats would be the The Goods and Louisville Slugger Meta PWR

Had some quality control issues around the weight distribution for some of the bat units.

Hype BBCOR Baseball Bat

• Power Boost Soft Knob Technology
• Huge Barrel with Massive Sweet Spot
• Stiff Composite handle and stiff feel

Balanced 2022 BAT

Massive Barrel and Sweet Spot for Contact Hitters

Easton Hype User Reviews

“ HOMERUN – Not to say my son hasn’t been working his tail off to get that ball over the fence, but this bat was the extra bit! He got his first dinger! Great -3 BBCOR bat. We love Easton bats!”

“EXCELLENT -3 BBCOR BAT – YOU WANT BE DISAPPOINTED ” My son got this bat last summer and everyone on the team started using it. Great pop, and a beautiful bat to boot. Definitely would recommend to anyone who is in the market looking for a new one with great barrel performance!”

“ Can I Give It 6 Stars?- This is it. The one -3 BBCOR bat to beat all other bats. I have to admit, I was a skeptic. Easton makes great products, but a $500 bat? What could it possibly do that my trust $250 bat can’t. I was wrong. This bat is it. So what do you get for the extra money? 2 things. The first is incredible balance that can be felt throughout your swing. There is a noticeable difference and you can just feel it when you are in your stance. The second thing is a huge sweet spot. It allows you to miss but still make clean contact. It is amazing.”

2022 Easton Hype has an extremely light swing weight and the performance is as good as the Slugger Meta and DeMarini CF.

The grip has outstanding quality and made with very durable materials.

The huge barrel has a massive sweet spot and is balanced.

The price could be an issue for those that are unfamiliar with the Easton brand.

Aluminum/Alloy BBCOR Baseball Bats

Aluminum / Alloy BBCOR bats are made with a single piece of aluminum or an alloy material. These bats are typically lighter than the composite bat, making them ideal for contact hitters who want a bat that is easy to swing.

The best BBCOR bats are aluminum or alloy. Aluminum bats or Alloy BBCOR bats generally come  “Hot out of the Wrapper” . This baseball bat can be played in any weather condition and can be less expensive than the composite baseball bat. 

The categories below are an overview at selecting the right BBCOR bat for your son.

Depending on your little league, alloy bats requirements differ in regards to the bat drop weight requirements. Please check your regulations prior to purchasing your next baseball alloy bat.

Newly Released 2022 Alloy BBCOR Baseball Bats

Marucci CatX Alloy BBCOR Baseball Bat

• Length: 29-34
• Multi Variable Wall Design w/ Massive Sweet Spot
• AZR Alloy Offers More Responsive Performance
• Balanced Swing Weight; Improved Barrel Control
• Hottest BBCOR bat on the market
• One Piece Aluminum Construction

Balanced BBCOR BAT 2023 Model

It may be the most complete BBCOR Bat in Baseball

Marucci CatX User Reviews

This BBCOR alloy bat is fresh off the line and boy are people talking about it all over social media. I will update as I come across them and when I get my son to test one out. From the user reviews I am reading this picks up right wear the Marucci Cat9 BBCOR left off. People are saying they are hitting nukes with this BBCOR bat!

HOT HOT HOT out of the wrapper with the SPD composite end cap is used to balance the barrel weight. As a result, the barrel weight is significantly reduced which enhances the swing speed dramatically.

Upgraded Barrel Profile which means they lowered the MOI or more balanced swing weight while expanding the sweet spot! This is completely different than the Cat9.

Liquid Gel Dampening Knob that absorbs vibrations for an even more comfortable swing.

Custom Molded Handle Taper is designed for every weight drop which means it is a better fit, more bat control, and overall better plate performance.

The most comparable bats would be the DeMarini The Goods.

The demand on this bat will be extremely high. So if you see one you may want to pick it up.

Louisville Slugger – OUR PICK

Louisville Slugger Solo BBCOR Baseball Bat

• Features a thinner wall barrel design for maximum  power and performance.
• SPD Composite End Cap: reduces swing weight toward the end of the bat, allowing for increased swing speed.
• One Piece Alloy Bat

The Best Balanced BBCOR Bat for Contact Hitters

Louisville Slugger Solo User Reviews

TravelDad Review -“This the Top BBCOR Bat my son selected for his BBCOR baseball bat for high school. We actually transitioned him between 13U and 14U to get him ready for the massive barrel performance and weight. He said he really liked the balanced swing weight and it was almost like the Marucci Cat 9 Alloy Baseball bat (drop 5) he had prior. He has a high swing speed or exit velocity so having a massive sweet spot is something all contact hitters appreciates. He led the team with hits and RBI’s so we could not be happier. Again, we would highly recommend this BBCOR Bat as Louisville Slugger makes a great baseball BBCOR baseball bat.”

“ Great Bat, well balanced, used by high school senior – I am a high school senior, I have always used Louisville bats. This is my third Solo. It is a Premium LS bat. Light weight, high exit velocity and quick through the zone. Also has pop with many doubles to the fence.”

Hyper light alloy gives a thinner wall design and a larger sweet spot.

VIBEX technology amazingly reduced the vibration and stings that you will feel almost no vibration even with the fastest pitch ever. And the stings with mishits are gone as well.

The original grip has a durability issue. Buy Lizard Skins if it becomes an issue….

Louisville Slugger Select PWR BBCOR Baseball Bat 2022

• PWR End Cap

Designed for POWER HITTERS

LS Select PWR BBCOR User Reviews

“Great Pop – Great feel and the ball just explodes off the bat with a massive barrel performance, swing speed and is a good bat to go with if you like DeMarini the goods will last a lot longer would recommend.”

“Hits nukes but… Don’t get me wrong this -3 BBCOR baseball bat is amazing I would’ve gave it 5 stars only that it started rattling and it’s probably the most annoying thing in the world plus it got all scratched and chipped which is a little annoying but it’s bound to happen especially when all you do is hit baseballs with it”

“ Swing Weight is Awesome – -3 BBCOR   Bat looks amazing. Has a great feel with LS Pro Comfort Grip, fantastic barrel performance, great swing weight and best of all the bat has extremely good pop.”

HOT HOT HOT out of the wrapper with this alloy barrel. Slightly less end loaded than The Goods .

Durability and outstanding performance along with the infamous sound of a well struck ball.

Not many issues you should really know about.

2022 DeMarini The Goods BBCOR Bat

• X14 Massive Alloy Barrel designed for Elite Power Hitters
• Stiff Composite Handle and Massive Alloy Barrel
• Direct Connection for Maximum Energy Transfer
• One Piece Alloy Bat; Maximum Stiffness for Increased Bat Speeds

Balanced BBCOR BAT 2022 Model

OUTSTANDING One Piece Bat for POWER HITTERS

DeMarini The Goods BBCOR User Reviews

“DeMarini The Goods produces the goods on the field, awesome and well made bat. The two-piece option is best for limited feedback on the handle when making ball contact. Barrel pops the ball outward at high velocity. Highly recommend for Elite Power Hitters”

“Bought for 16 year old son. He loves it -After his DeMarini Voodoo broke, this is the one he wanted. It has everything he wanted in a bat. He is completely satisfied with it.”

“So I’ll be blunt, my son thinks he can hit like Aaron judge or Mike Trout. Let’s be honest here, he lacks the power and many other intangibles. But if this makes him think he’s gonna hit dingers, just like new shoes make you faster than a cheetah, then so be it. Really though, nice bat, has some good pop to it. (He’s still not Trout or Judge, but it’s got some decent pop to it).”

HOT HOT HOT out of the wrapper with this alloy barrel, feels stiffer and great performance.

Large sweet spot, top notch durability and no vibrations.

This is bat drops Nukes!

The most comparable bats would be the DeMarini VooDoo .

Not a contact hitter bat for those that are looking for a balanced bat as this is end loaded.

2022 Voodoo One BBCOR Baseball Bat

• X14 Alloy Barrel and Tracer End Cap: Lightweight performance
• Designed for maximum power, pop and durability
• Allows for maximum stiffness, ultimate bat speeds

Great One Piece Bat but has durability issues

DeMarini Voodoo One User Reviews

“This is my kid’s first BBCOR bat and he loves it. The feel, the swing and the sweet spot. 100% recommend it for BBCOR first timers.”

“My son is hitting the ball well… the ball jumps off the bat. with the high exit velocity. We are highly satisfied with our purchase”

HOT HOT HOT out of the wrapper with this alloy barrel.

Lives up to the name with Superior Performance and not vibrations.

Great balanced bat, bat speed and overall huge sweet spot.

High in demand so may be hard to find.

Most reviews state the durability is good enough but there is a sizable out there with complaints. For the price point just be aware.

Black Cobra BBCOR Baseball Bat

• Designed for maximum pop and durability

Outstanding One Piece Balanced BBCOR Bat

Warstic Back Cobra User Reviews

“ Son LOVES it – We took it to his hitting lesson this week and he absolutely crushed the ball. He said it feels great and swings quick. It’ll be a long time before he switches away from his Warstic.”

“ It’s light swinging, good sweet spot, nice power, great for the hybrid contact and power hitter mix – Bat is hot out of the box, great sweet spot and swing weight, power is their love it.

“This bat has POP! My 13U son smashes the ball almost every time for doubles and triples. He has been working with it on the off-season so I am expecting dingers soon!”

“Love this bat! My son currently uses it for his 14u team and has been getting a lot of success with it. The pop! on that bat is amazingly crazy….. the only cons is that all his teammates want to use it now …”

This bat boasts an unprecedented exit velocity combined with maximum pop, which propels the ball to the farthest possible distance on the field.

Same model as 2021 other than the paint job.

Marucci Cat9 BBCOR Baseball Bat

• Length: 32-34
• Multi Variable Wall Design Creates Massive Sweet Spot
• Three Stage Thermal Treatment
• AZR Alloy Offers More Performance, Better Feel
• Designed for High School and College Athletes

Balanced Cat9 BBCOR BAT 2021 Model

Perfect for Contact Hitters

Marucci Cat9 User Reviews

“Personal Review – This was one of the Top 2 BBCOR Bats my son considered when selecting his BBCOR baseball bat for high school. We actually transitioned him between 13U and 14U to get him ready for the massive barrel and weight. He said he really liked the balanced swing weight and it was almost like the Marucci Cat 9 Alloy Baseball bat (drop 5) he had prior. He has a high swing speed so having a massive sweet spot is something all contact hitters appreciates. Again, we would highly recommend this BBCOR Bat as Marucci makes a great baseball bat.”

“My son is raking the ball with this BBCOR baseball bat, he hit a line drive so hard the second baseman’s glove was almost ripped off his hand. The ball fly’s off this bat and several players on the team are now using this BBCOR bat. My son likes the one piece feel and of course wants pop, this is has both and the sound the ball makes off the alloy bat is awesome.”

Longitudinal Groove System (LGS), which reduces the extra weight of the bat and makes it a great balanced bat. This amazing batis is designed with a thin wall and a massive sweet spot that is perfect for contact hitters.

This BBCOR baseball bat is powered by the anti-vibration system, which dramatically lessens the bat’s vibration in mishits.

None; Just pick your paint job!

Maxum 360 BBCOR Baseball Bat

• Length: 30-33
• One Piece XXL Barrel designed for a massive sweet spot
• Speed Balanced Swing Weight

Speed Balanced BBCOR BAT 2021 Model

Balanced Power Hitting for Power Hitters

Easton Maxum 360 User Reviews

“Glad I Bought This – My son has been using this for a couple of months now. He is transitioning from USABat standard to BBCOR as he gets ready for high school ball. This Easton Maxum 360 bat has a great feel, swings easy, and has a ton of pop for a “balanced” bat. A lot of his teammates are now using it because it feels much lighter than the -3 BBCOR it is. Feels like a -5.”

“ Great BBCOR Bat – My 14 year old son loves the pop off this baseball bat. Well Balanced BBCOR bat with alot of bat speed and huge sweet spot on the barrel”

The biggest barrel length, Maxum Ultra also features the largest sweet spot that gives an accurate combination of power and speed.

The power-loaded barrel is optimized to generate the maximum power for the power hitters. Great swing weight gives fantastic swing speed that doesn’t miss the balls.

Hot Hot Out of the Wrapper BBCOR Bat!

Black Magic BBCOR Bat

• Two Piece Composite

Quick Start BBCOR Baseball Bat Basics – (Parent Guide 101)

What does bbcor mean.

The acronym BBCOR stands for “Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution”. The term restitution refers to the elasticity or spring-like property of a material. In the case of baseball bats, the amount of energy that is imparted to a pitched ball upon contact is referred to as the coefficient of restitution. 

A bat with a high coefficient of restitution will impart more energy to the ball upon contact, resulting in a faster batted ball speed. BBCOR bats are designed to meet a Bat-Ball Coefficient of Restitution (BBCOR) of 0.50 or less for collegiate and high school play.

There are a few things that go into finding the perfect BBCOR bat for your son. The first thing you need to consider is his height and weight. You’ll also want to take into account his hitting style, as well as the type of pitcher he typically faces. With all of these factors in mind, you should be able to narrow down your options and find the perfect BBCOR bat for your son.

To help you get started, we’ve put together  the ultimate 2022 list of BBCOR bats right for 14 year olds. We’ve also included a buyer’s guide that covers all the important factors you need to consider when making your purchase.

I know there is a lot of conflicting information out there, so it can be hard to know what type will work well with your child and their unique playing style!

Why Is There A Need for BBCOR bats?

In order to protect pitchers, the BBCOR standard was created. Bats that exceed the BBCOR threshold can cause serious injury to pitchers, as well as create an unfair advantage over those using bats that meet the BBCOR standard.

What Should I Look For In A BBCOR Bat?

There are a number of different factors that go into determining the best BBCOR bat. Some of these include:

• materials used

When it comes to finding the right BBCOR Baseball bats, it is important to find one that meets your specific needs and preferences.

If you are want to be like the elite power hitters, you will want a bat that is on the heavier side, as this will help you to generate more power. If you are a contact hitter, you may want a lighter bat, as this will help you to make contact with the ball more frequently.

What Baseball Bat is the Best BBCOR Baseball Bat?

There are a few things you should keep in mind when shopping and looking for the best BBCOR bats 2022. First, consider the size and weight of the bat. It should be the right size for your child to swing comfortably and hit the ball with power.

Second, look for a baseball bat with a good balance of weight distribution. The best BBCOR bat ensure that the bat is not too top-heavy or bottom-heavy, which can affect swing speed.

Finally, choose a baseball bat made from durable materials that will withstand heavy use. The best BBCOR bat are typically made from aluminum or composite material.

Take into account the region you live in and the weather into consideration as composite barrel bats are fragile if the temperature falls below a certain level.

How to Select the Right BBCOR Baseball Bat?

When it comes to selecting your next best BBCOR bat you should consider a variety of factors. Most importantly, you should be thinking about BBCOR bats as it relates to your son. Personally, I know for years my son is more of a contact hitter. He needed a balanced bat with the sweet spot in the middle of the bat. An end loaded bat would have hurt his production based on where he consistently hits the ball on the bat. Ultimately I wanted to make sure he had the confidence on the plate.

So, I wouldn’t recommend purchasing a $400+ plus bat if it does not compliment your son’s hitting style. Additionally, purchasing a bat that is “too big” or too long/ too heavy could actually hurt your sons swing. Below are a few of the things I will cover to help with the “marketing” lingo as you read about the best BBCOR baseball bat reviews. 

• Material 
• End Loaded vs. Balanced
• Length/Drop
• Training Bats / Hitting Accessories
• Key Hitting Metrics Defined 

I hope it helps as just read over some of the best BBCOR bats 2022 reviews.

Type of BBCOR Baseball Bat (Material)

While there are many popular and best BBCOR bats and brands out there I wanted to focus first on what the baseball bat is made of. There is a big difference between a composite vs an aluminum vs a wood bat.

The material and the bat construction could have an immediate impact from how far your son hit’s the ball. So let’s start with the basics based on some of the best BBCOR baseball bat reviews for your son.

Carbon Composite Hybrid BBCOR Baseball Bat

Some of the best BBCOR bats are carbon composite. The carbon composite BBCOR bat use material known as carbon fiber polymer within the bat construction. The integration of the carbon fiber polymer make up all or part of the overall BBCOR bat. Those that are made 100% of this material are known as the carbon composite BBCOR bat. Those bats that use part of the carbon fiber polymer are known as the Hybrid or Composite Hybrid BBCOR bat. 

Advantages:

• Improved Weight Distribution
• More durable than wood bats
• Trampoline Effect
• Higher Damping Rate (reduces hand sting from mishits)
• Greater “Pop” and Sweet Spot

Disadvantages:

• Increased Costs or Higher Priced Bats
• Potential for cracking in colder temperatures
• Requires to be “Broken In” which equates to approximately 150 – 200 hits. 
• Less durable than aluminum/alloy bats

Hybrid BBCOR Baseball Bats

Some of the best BBCOR bats are actually hybrid. The Hybrid BBCOR Bat enjoys the benefits from both the pure composite and alloy baseball bat. They are known as a 2 piece hybrid construction bat where the handle is alloy and the barrel is composite. Thus, the high school baseball power hitters enjoys the massive sweet spot and ultra light handle weight. 

Overall, the hybrid construction composite barrel is a dominate bat on the field that all young hitters want in their bag. It has a stiffer feel and can be slightly end loaded. The there are a one piece hybrid bat as well as multi piece bbcor bat. Both are a fan favorite with quick success delivers greater confidence and dominance at the plate.

For those parents that don’t mind making the investment every season, these are some of the best BBCOR bat options. 

What are the benefits of a 3 piece composite bat?

A 3 piece composite bat is made up of three different pieces that are fused together. The benefit of a 3 piece composite bat is that it is more flexible and can provide more pop than a 2 piece bat. It is also more durable and has less vibration. Great for power hitters. 

Which Is the Best BBCOR Baseball Bat? Alloy Bats or Aluminum

Some of the best BBCOR bats are aluminum or alloy.The aluminum or alloy BBCOR bat is exactly as the name describes. It is a bat constructed from 100% from aluminum. Some additives known as aluminum alloy may be integrated to “enhance” the bat. The price difference between aluminum or alloy baseball bats vary due to the quality of the aluminum or alloy material.

Advantages: 

• Less expensive than most composite or hybrid baseball bats
• “Hot Out of the Wrapper” meaning this is a game ready bat and does not require a “break in” period
• Single Wall Design are lighter and easier to swing
• Double Wall Design increases the sweet spot and durability 
• Can be used in any weather condition 
• The loud “Ping” sound just sounds cool 
• Hand stings from mishits 
• Feels stiff on contact similar to wood
• Single Wall Design are less durable 
• Double Wall Design are heavier due to added mass
• Visible dents or can be felt when you rub your hand on the barrel 

Aluminum or alloy bats still remain very popular at all skill levels of play. The price is determined by the quality of the bat but it may be considered a bargain compared to some of the higher priced composite bat. Read over some of the best BBCOR bat reviews to see if what other parents may have to say. 

Why You Should Consider Wood Baseball Bat

What can I say about the wood bat. It has been around since the game started. They are some of the baseball bat you might want to start with. What I love about wood bats is the sound at the “crack of the bat”. Additionally, more and more wood bat tournaments are popping up. 

Most kids struggle with the smaller barrel and weight but I call it the great equalizer. Both the composite and aluminum bats outperform the wood bats in terms of batted ball distance. So it is not a surprise to see the power hitter only get a single with a wood bat. 

Below is a great Dicks Sporting Goods has a wood bat materials comparison chart. 

If you truly want to see how well your son hits, invest in a good wood bat and train with it everyday. 

Several advantages with training with the wood bat are: 

• Less expensive than both composite and alloy BBCOR bats so if you crack it your not out a significant amount of $$. 
• Requires the hitter to make contact with a smaller sweet spot
• Less forgiving on contact; the bat will let you will know with immediate feedback
• Heavier bat weight will increase the bat speeds on both the aluminum and composite barrel assuming they weigh less

Of course, the wood baseball bat comes the cool sound of a well hit ball! Read over some of the best baseball bat wood reviews. 

Barrel Type of BBCOR Baseball Bat

To best address this section you should be able to determine what type of hitter your son is. Is he a power hitter or a contact hitter? If you are unsure then let me clarify a bit more just in case! I get it especially as us “dad’s” all believe are kids are power hitters when actually they are contact hitters. 

• Contact Hitters – They rarely strikes out and move the line by putting the ball in play. Typically fast runners and usually are the lead off. Generally prefer a Balanced BBCOR Bat.
• Elite Power Hitters – When they connect, watch out! Bomb droppers. Not everyone can be a power hitter. Expect hitters with power in the four hole to move the runners. An End Loaded BBCOR baseball bat is the preferred choice. 

So with these generic definitions we should be able to pinpoint type of weight distribution you should consider. Majority of the BBCOR baseball bat reviews will usually end loaded or balanced for type of bat.

What is the trampoline effect?

The trampoline effect is when the barrel of the bat flexes and stores energy upon contact with the ball. This energy is then released back to the ball, providing more power.

What to Look For In A Balanced BBCOR Bat for Contact

Some of the best BBCOR bats are balanced. If your son loves hitting the gaps, typically hits singles and doubles they should consider a balanced baseball bat. 

A balanced bat will have the weight evenly distributed from the tip of the handle to the end of the barrel which allows for complete control through the hitting zone with increased swing speeds. This is known as understanding what the proper length to weight ratio is for your son. Also, these types of BBCOR bats generally have thick handles that not only provides a better grip but better durability as well. 

This is helpful to generate greater bat speed without sacrificing control. A great option when looking at all of the types of BBCOR bats.

What to Look For In A End Loaded BBCOR Bat for Power

Some of the best BBCOR bats are made for power. Power hitters love the end loaded baseball bat. Not everyone can properly swing this type of bat properly and not for the typical player. The reason why is that it takes alot of arm strength for proper control of the bat. 

Additionally, a portion of the overall weight is geared towards the end of the barrel. This generates more mass behind one’s swing which results in increased power and speed and ball flight for those big hits.

If you find that your son has great bat speed and is often getting ahead of the ball then you may want to start exploring an end loaded bat as they transition into a BBCOR baseball bat. 

Do BBCOR Bats Lose Pop?

The answer to this question is a bit complicated. It really depends on the bat and how it’s used. Generally speaking, however, BBCOR bats will lose pop over time. This is due to the fact that the material of the bat will start to break down and compress after extended use.

How Long Do BBCOR Bats Last?

BBCOR bats are designed and built for high performance. They are made with premium materials and construction techniques that make them last longer and perform at a higher level than other types of baseball bats. However, even the best BBCOR bats will eventually need to be replaced.

How Important is the Sweet Spot?

The sweet spot is the area on the baseball bat where you will get the best performance. The sweet spot is typically located in the middle of the barrel, and it’s the area that is most often used by hitters. When you make contact with the ball in the sweet spot, you will get more power and distance.

Additionally, the sweet spot can help to reduce vibration, making for a more comfortable swing. If you’re looking for a BBCOR baseball bat with a good sweet spot, Easton and Marucci are two brands that offer great options.

What is Swing Weight?

Swing weight is a measure of how balanced a baseball bat is. A baseball bat with a heavier swing weight will be more difficult to swing, but it will also provide more power. A bat with a ultra light swing weight will be easier to swing, but it won’t provide as much power. Ultimately, it’s up to the player to decide what swing weight is right for them. 

If you’re looking for a BBCOR baseball bat with a good swing weight, Easton and Marucci are two brands that offer great options.

Understand the BBCOR Bat by Barrel Length/Drop

As we start to understand how to critical it is to transition into a BBCOR baseball bat prior to high school, this section is a must read and is critical for his success. If you get this wrong you could either select a baseball bat that is too heavy or too light for your son. 

This would impact their performance on the plate and could then start to deteriorate his confidence. As you read over some of the BBCOR baseball bat reviews, it will always cover the length and drop kids are using. 

Below is a chart I would use strictly as a reference. The physical characteristics of each child could vary greatly. 

How to Measure For Length the Baseball Bat

There are three additional ways to understand length and if the length of the your BBCOR baseball bat is correct. 

• Measure from the knob of the baseball bat in the center of the chest to the tips of your fingers. 
• If the knob of the bat reaches from your chest and your child can grab the barrel of the bat.
• When wearing cleats, the bat should be no higher than your hip and/or reach the center of your palm.

The illustration, provided by Dick’s Pro Tip, should help visually. 

Is Barrel Size Important?

The size of the barrel is important when choosing a BBCOR bat. A larger barrel will provide more pop, while a smaller barrel will be more maneuverable. The barrel diameter also factors into the same as barrel size. 

How to Measure For Drop for Baseball Bats

Honestly, the drop weight of the baseball bat is just as critical as the length of the bat. (See the illustration above provided by Dicks Pro Tips). If the bat is too heavy then your son could have poor hitting mechanics or less success at the plate. 

You should pay attention to this key metric when evaluating upgrading your next baseball bat. o clarify, the drop is part of the formula used to determine the bat weight. Additionally, each inch is approx. 1 ounce. The formula is simply (Length) minus (drop weight) equals (weight of bat) in ounces. So if the length of the BBCOR baseball bat is 33 with a drop 3 then (30 – 3 = 27 ounces).

However, because of his age and depending on which league he typically plays in, it may be mandatory he starts to swing a drop 3 in the next spring season. 

Therefore, you add one ounce from the length and two additional ounces because of the drop weight. Total of 3 ounces have been added which is significant. It is recommended that at least 6 months of swinging the heavier baseball bat before using it on the field.

Again, the transition period is very important as you are looking for a BBCOR baseball bat.

Best BBCOR Bat with the Best Swing Speed

Some of the best BBCOR bats for swing speed are the DeMarini Voodoo One, the Easton Project 3 FUZE 360, and the Marucci CAT9 . These BBCOR bats are all made with ultra light lightweight materials and have balanced swing weights, making them ideal for players who want to swing fast.

Best BBCOR Bat for Power Hitters

Some of the best BBCOR bats for power hitters are the DeMarini Voodoo One, the DeMarini The Goods, and the Louisville Slugger Meta. These BBCOR bats are all made with ultra light materials and have end loaded swing weights, making them ideal for power hitters who want to swing speed with massive power.

Best BBCOR Bat for Contact Hitters

Some of the best BBCOR bats for contact hitters are the Easton Alpha 360, the Marucci Cat9, and the Louisville Slugger Solo. These BBCOR bats are all made with ultra light weight alloy barrel materials and have balanced swing weights, making them ideal for players who have high swing speed and exit velocity for contact. 

What is the Difference Between a 2021 and a 2022 BBCOR?

The main difference between a 2021 and a 2022 bat is the size of the barrel. A 2021 BBCOR bat has a 2 5/8 inch barrel diameter while a 2022 bat has a 2 3/4 inch barrel diameter.

This means that a 2021 BBCOR bat will have a smaller sweet spot than the best BBCOR bats 2022.

BBCOR Approved Bats for High School & College Baseball

The following BBCOR baseball bats have been approved by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) for use in high school and collegiate play. Please check your local High School Rules as this list is not complete. 

2021 BBCOR Bats

• Easton Maxum 360 -3 BBCOR Baseball Bat
• Louisville Slugger Meta Prime BBCOR Baseball Bat
• Marucci CAT9 BBCOR Baseball Bat
• Rawling Quatro Pro Baseball Bat

2022 BBCOR Bats

• DeMarini The Goods BBCOR Baseball Bat
• DeMarini CF Zen Blackout WTDXCBC-21 -3 BBCOR Baseball Bat
• Easton Fuze Hybrid 360 -3 BBCOR Baseball Bat
• Louisville Slugger Select PWR Endload BBCOR Baseball Bat

What is the BBCOR Certification?

The BBCOR Certification is a mark that is placed on baseball bats that meet the requirements set by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). The BBCOR Certification is required for use in high school and collegiate play.

The BBCOR Certification process includes testing the bat’s performance, material composition, and construction. Bats that pass the BBCOR Certification process are stamped with the BBCOR logo.

What is the required for BBCOR Certification?

In order for a bat to be eligible for BBCOR Certification, it must meet the following requirements:

– The bat must have a barrel diameter no greater than 2 5/8 inches.

– The bat must be no shorter than 29 inches.

– The bat must not weigh more than 3 ounces less than the length of the bat (e.g. a 32-inch bat cannot weigh less than 29 ounces).

– The bat must not have a barrel that is excessively wide or flared.

– The bat must not have any sharp or jagged edges on the barrel or handle.

What are the benefits of using a BBCOR Certified Bat?

The main benefit of using a BBCOR Certified Bat is that it meets the requirements set by the NCAA and NFHS for use in high school and collegiate play. Additionally, BBCOR Certified Bats are typically made with high-quality materials and construction, which results in a bat that performs well and lasts long.

What are the disadvantages of using a BBCOR Certified Bat?

One of the main disadvantages of using a BBCOR Certified Bat is the cost. BBCOR Certified Bats typically cost more than non-certified bats. Additionally, some players may prefer the feel and performance of a non-certified bat over a BBCOR Certified Bat.

What are the Best BBCOR bats for 2021?

Louisville slugger meta.

The Louisville Slugger Meta is one of the most popular BBCOR big barrel bat on the market. The bat features an aluminum barrel and has a balanced swing weight. The bat is available in sizes 31″, 32″, and 33″.

The 2021 Louisville Slugger Meta, puts a powerful, balanced 3 piece composite bat in the hands of aspiring young superstars at the USSSA and Senior League level. The EKO composite barrel is engineered to be the pinnacle of performance. A 3 piece construction featuring their patented VCX²™ Connection System paired with their innovative barrel design, culminating in a light swinging bat with an enormous sweet spot and incredible pop. 

The Premium GT1™ end cap further maximizes the Meta’s barrel length and faster swing speed — helping you power your way to the top.

Marucci CAT9

The Marucci CAT9 is one of the best BBCOR bats 2022 on the market. It’s made with an aluminum ringless barrel and has a balanced swing weight. The bat is available in sizes 31″, 32″, and 33″. The bat features:

• Utilizing a three stage thermal treatment process, our new AZR alloy offers a more responsive microstructure for better feel, more forgiveness and more performance while maintaining the same strength as its predecessor
• Multi variable wall thickness design creates an expanded sweet spot and thinner barrel walls that are more forgiving after off-centered contact
• 2nd Generation AV2 Anti-Vibration knob features an upgraded, finely tuned harmonic dampening system for better feel and less negative vibrational feedback
• Ring free barrel construction allows for more barrel flex and increases performance with no “dead” spots
• Precision-balanced ringless barrel results in a lower M.O.I. and balanced feel for precision and control
• One piece alloy construction provides a clean, consistent, faster swing
• Micro perforated soft-touch grip with extra tack improves feel and control

WarStic BoneSaber BBCOR Baseball Bat

The Bonesaber USSSA Aluminum Bat is the most Pro style one piece bat model profile on the market. For those who want better feel, better bat control, more swing speed, more awareness of the sound of the ball hitting the bat, MORE BALANCE AND PRECISION. The Bonesaber is not a forgiving bat. Bonesaber performs up to the hitter’s level, doing all the things their skill is asking it to do.

Hitters who choose Bonesaber are capable of wielding it, and it performs for them. They are precision, disciplined attackers of the ball who take what is thrown at them, and make killshots. Bonesaber hitters are dangerous because they can get an opponent in ALL THE WAYS. A Bonesaber hitter is a sniper, a bomber, and a hand-to-hand combat artist at the plate. They are who you want leading you into battle.

• Out of our three metal baseball bats, Bonesaber is the most balanced option.
• Solid one piece single wall aluminum bat
• The most Pro style knob on the market, the patented Warstic® Pommel Precision knob with TSUKA Warrior’s Grip.
• Explosive, higher pitched sound like samurai sword slicing through its target. Based on the color of natural maple wood bat, Bonesaber is the closest thing to a “white” bat allowed in NCAA play.
• Barrel size: 2 5/8 inches

Other BBCOR Baseball Bat Options

There are a lot of different BBCOR bats with maximum barrel performance on the market, so it can be tough to know which one is the best for you. Here is a list of the best BBCOR big barrel bats for 2021:

1. Easton Ghost X Hyperlite – The Easton Ghost X Hyperlite is a great choice for anyone looking for a light swinging, huge sweet spot and durable bat. It is made with Easton’s patented Hyperlite technology, which makes it 20% lighter than other baseball bats in its class.

2. DeMarini CF Insane – The DeMarini CF Insane is a great choice for elite power hitters. It has a maximum barrel length and an extended sweet spot, making it easier to hit home runs.

3. Louisville Slugger Prime 918 – The Louisville Slugger Prime 918 is a great choice for anyone looking for a balanced bat. It has a powerful smaller barrel performance that is easy to control, big sweet spot making it a great option for contact hitters.

4. Marucci Cat 8 – The Marucci Cat 8 is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable bat with a massive sweet spot. It is made with Marucci’s patented Cat 8 AZR Alloy construction technology, which makes it 20% stronger than other bats in its class.

5. Mizuno B20-Maxcor – The Mizuno B20-Maxcor is a great choice for anyone looking for a light swinging bat. It has a massive smaller barrel performance that is easy for both power and speed, making it a great option for younger players.

Popular BBCOR Bats 2019

Rawlings quatro pro.

The Rawlings Quatro Pro is a popular BBCOR big barrel bat from the 2019 line. It’s made with a composite barrel and has a easy swing weight and huge sweet spot. The bat is available in sizes 31″, 32″, and 33″.

The Quatro Pro was one of the most popular BBCOR bats last year, and it looks like that trend will continue in 2020. The bat has great reviews on JustBats.com, with many people raving about this BBCOR on the market. 

If you’re looking for a used BBCOR bat, the Rawlings Quatro Pro is definitely worth checking out.

Easton B5 Pro Review

The Easton B5 Pro is a BBCOR big barrel bat from the 2019 line. It’s made with an aluminum barrel and has a great swing weight. The bat is available in sizes 31″, 32″, and 33″.

The Easton B5 Pro bat features:

• ATAC ALLOY – Advanced Thermal Alloy construction for maximum barrel performance and huge sweet spot.
• RINGLESS BARREL CONSTRUCTION – Ringless Barrel Construction provides more barrel flex and smoother feel across the barrel at contact.
• ATAC ALLOY HANDLE – Extra-stiff alloy handle transfers maximum energy into the ball for a more professional feel and performance.
• VIBRATION REDUCTION SYSTEM – VRS handle insert reinforces the handle to reduce vibration and create and even more solid feel.

The B5 Pro was one of Easton’s most popular baseball bats last year, and it looks like that trend will continue in 2020. The Easton B5 Pro bat has great reviews with many people saying they are happy with this BBCOR. If you’re looking for a used BBCOR bat, the Easton B5 Pro is definitely worth checking out among the bats available. 

Axe Bat BBCOR Baseball Bat

The AXE Bat BBCOR baseball bat is a popular big barrel bat from the 2019 line. It’s made with an MX8 alloy barrel, unique axe handle and has a balanced swing for an easy to find sweet spot. The bat is available in sizes 31″, 32″, and 33″.

The AXE Bat BBCOR baseball bat was one of the most popular bats last year with its axe handle and it looks like that trend will continue in 2020. The BBCOR baseball bat has great reviews with many people saying it has one of the best axe handle and love the MX8 alloy barrel. If you’re looking for a used end load  -3 BBCOR bat, the AXE Bat BBCOR is definitely worth checking out for a faster swing. 

Avenge Pro Hybrid

The Avenge Pro Hybrid is a popular BBCOR bat from the 2019 line. It’s made with a composite barrel and has a balanced swing and easy to find sweet spot. The bat is available in sizes 31″, 32″, and 33″.

The Avenge Pro Hybrid was one of the most popular baseball bats last year, and it looks like that trend will continue in 2020. The bat has great reviews. If you’re looking for a used BBCOR bat, the Avenge Pro Hybrid is definitely worth checking out.

Louisville Slugger Omaha

The Louisville Slugger Omaha BBCOR is a popular bat from the 2019 line. It’s made with an aluminum barrel and has a balanced swing to go with the massive sweet spot. The bat is available in sizes 31″, 32″, and 33″.

The Omaha BBCOR was one of Louisville Slugger’s most popular baseball bats last year, and it looks like that trend will continue in 2020. The bat has great reviews as one of the best BBCOR bats 2022 available. If you’re looking for a new BBCOR bat, the Omaha BBCOR is definitely worth checking out.

Stinger Nuke BBCOR

The Stinger Nuke BBCOR is a great bat for players who are looking for a lot of pop and great sweet spot. It’s made with an aluminum barrel and has a balanced swing weight. The bat is available in sizes 31″, 32″, and 33″.

What is the Marucci Three Stage Thermal Treatment?

The Marucci Three Stage Thermal Treatment, or advanced thermal alloy construction, is a process that Marucci uses to treat the aluminum barrels of their BBCOR bats. The barrel technology process includes heating the barrels to three different temperatures and then cooling them. This treatment strengthens the barrel and makes it more durable. 

How does the Marucci Three Stage Thermal Treatment benefit the bat?

The benefits of the Marucci Three Stage Thermal Treatment or advanced thermal alloy construction, include improved durability, increased performance, and a longer lifespan for the bat. Additionally, the treatment gives the bat a softer feel, which some players prefer.

What are the disadvantages with the Marucci Three Stage Thermal Treatment?

One of the main disadvantages of using a bat with the Marucci Three Stage Thermal Treatment is the cost. Baseball bats with the treatment typically cost more than baseball bats without the treatment. Additionally, some players may prefer the feel and performance of a bat without the treatment.

What is the Marucci AV2 Anti Vibration Knob?

The Marucci AV2 Anti Vibration Knob is a knob that is designed to reduce vibration and improve comfort. It’s made with a soft, rubber-like material that helps to absorb vibrations. The knob is also ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in the hand.

The AV2 Anti Vibration Knob is a great option for players who are looking for a way to reduce vibration and improve comfort. Essentially, this shock suspension technology within the knob has been well-received by players, with many people saying it’s helped them significantly reduce vibration. If you’re looking for a way to improve your comfort while swinging, the AV2 Anti Vibration Knob is definitely worth considering.

Why the Reaction End Cap Matters

The reaction end cap is the piece of plastic or rubber that is located at the end of the bat, and it serves several important functions. The end cap helps to protect the barrel from dents and scratches, and it also helps to keep the weight of the bat distributed evenly. 

Additionally, the end cap can help to reduce vibration, making for a more comfortable swing speed. If you’re looking for a bat with a good reaction end cap, Easton and Marucci are two brands that offer great options.

BBCOR Bat Manufacturers

Demarini the goods.

Fan favorite, DeMarini The Goods is one of the most popular BBCOR bats on the market. It’s made with an aluminum barrel and has a end load swing weight. The bat is available in sizes 31″, 32″, and 33″.

The massive X14 Alloy Barrel with the one piece design gives you the feel of a wood bat with explosive power in a end load swing weight. The Seismic End Cap is made of the stiffest materials in their lineup, meaning no energy is wasted in your swing speed. Domination starts here.

DeMarini The Goods has great reviews with many people saying it’s one of the best BBCOR bats. If you’re looking for a bat that will provide great performance, DeMarini The Goods is definitely worth considering.

Here are some bat features:

• Ultra-Balanced swing weight – the light swinging model in our 2021 lineup for power and speed
• 1 piece construction with massive sweet spot. 
• SL Hyper Alloy Barrel Construction: Designed for a stiffer feel and maximum energy transfer on contact.
• SPD™ Composite End Cap
• Several Bat Drops and bat lengths available

DeMarini VooDoo One

The DeMarini VooDoo One is a great option for players who are looking for a bat with a lot of pop. It’s made with an aluminum barrel and has a light swing weight. The bat is available in sizes 31″, 32″, and 33″.

The DeMarini VooDoo One has great reviews with many people saying it’s one of the best end load BBCOR bats. If you’re looking for a bat that will provide great performance, the DeMarini VooDoo One is definitely worth considering.

What is the Difference between the 2021 and 2022 Demarini VooDoo One?

The only difference is the color of the bat. The 2021 DeMarini VooDoo One has a black and silver color scheme, while the 2022 DeMarini VooDoo One has a black and gold color scheme. Other than that, the two BBCOR bats are identical.

Top 10 BBCOR 1 Piece Bats

There are a lot of great BBCOR 1 piece bats on the market. Here are the Top 10 best:

1. DeMarini Voodoo One

2. Easton B5 Pro

3. Marucci CAT9

4. Louisville Slugger Meta

5. DeMarini The Goods

6. Louisville Slugger Solo

7. Easton Alpha 360

8. Mizuno B19 MaxCor

9. Rawlings Quatro Pro

10. Axe Avenge

These are all great 1 piece bats that will provide good performance. If you’re looking for a bat with a lot of pop, the DeMarini Voodoo One is a great option with a huge sweet spot.

If you’re looking for a bat that’s lightweight and has a balanced swing weight, the Easton B5 Pro is a good choice with a easy to find sweet spot. And if you’re looking for a bat that’s durable and has a lot of pop, the Marucci CAT9 is a great option.

No matter what your preferences are, there’s sure to be a BBCOR 1 piece bat that’s perfect for you at the high school or college level.

What Changes from COVID for Bat Manufacturers and Distributors

The three big bat manufacturers Easton, DeMarini, and Louisville Slugger have all announced production changes in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Easton will be ceasing production at their factory in California and moving operations to Pennsylvania. DeMarini has also announced that they will be suspending production at their facility in Oregon. Louisville Slugger is still operating, but has made changes to their process in order to protect workers. These changes include increased cleaning protocols and social distancing measures.

It’s not just the bat manufacturers that are feeling the effects of COVID-19, distributors are also being impacted. JustBats.com, one of the largest online retailers of baseball and softball bats, has seen a significant decrease in orders. They have had to lay off employees and reduce hours for those that are still working.

The pandemic has had a big impact on the baseball and softball bat industry, but it remains to be seen what the long-term effects will be. For now, manufacturers and distributors are doing their best to adapt and survive in these difficult times.

Training Aids/ Accessories for Hitting

Training aids and accessories are extremely popular for young hitters trying to perfect their swing with their new best youth baseball bat. There are several options out in the market for your consideration. They range from low tech to high tech and they are priced accordingly. Below are some aids that could help your young hitter hit their first dinger over the fence.  

You can also read are article on all of the best baseball training equipment here for more information. 

Tanner Tee – Adjustable from 26″ – 43″

Baseball tees I would deem as a must have for any player. Things to look for in a tee is durability and portability. Remember this item takes a pounding. Tees typically start anywhere from $19.99 and go up from there. 

The industry standard and the original hand-rolled FlexTop allows hitters to feel the ball not the tee at contact.

Solid metal design and easy height adjustments make Tanner Tee perfect for every level of baseball and softball. Its portable and easy to move from the inside to the outside of the plate and fits in nearly any bat bag right next to his best youth baseball bat. 

Baseball Nets

Baseball Nets are also a must have for any home training center or out on the field for the team to warm up. The key things to consider is net size, ease to setup and a ball catch. They typically start around $49.99+.

One Handed Trainer

The training bat is a great tool to help develop greater swing mechanics. It not only provides more control in a one-hand swing, it adds comfort and stability with every swing. With this one-hand trainer’s design, you’ll be able to mimic a natural motion that develops your swing and sends the ball deep every time you step to the plate.

• Short bat with regulation barrel
• Excellent training bat for one-handed hitting drills

CamWood Bats

CamWood is a great tool for those looking to take their swing to the next level. Start at $49.99 (One-Hander) and $89.99 (2 hander). This is a best youth baseball bats trainer. My son uses this everyday.

• Develops Proper Swing Mechanics and Increases Swing Speed
• Creates a Better Hand Path to the Ball; Prevents Casting
• Suitable for Players of All Levels
• Increase Bat Speed
• Increase Power

Pocket Radar – Ball Coach

For parents that need to look at data the Pocket Radar Ball Coach is the ultimate aid. Essentially this is a mini radar gun that is versatile to measure pitch speed to exit speed if you are positioned correctly. This is a definite cool factor and powerful tool for trainers and parents everywhere. This is an investment as they start from $299 and up.

Selecting the Right BBCOR Bat For High School

The good news is that the normal 2023 release of the new BBCOR bats reviews were limited. That it helps you really hyper focus on some of the new features out there. The key thing is I would highly recommend is your son should have the biggest impact on selecting the new BBCOR bat that is the right bat for him and getting ready for the high school and college level play. 

The key components for BBCOR bats:

• Meets the BBCOR Standard
• Evaluate the Barrel Diameter
• Multi variable or Single Thin Walls
• Balanced or End Loaded Bat or Slightly Ended Loaded
• Pwr End Cap for a light swing without sacrificing barrel control
• Composite Handle for a stiffer feel
• One Piece Hybrid construction, one piece alloy, or Two piece design composite barrel bat

My son is 14 years old and I plan on visiting retail stores that will allow him to swing as many BBCOR bats allowed so he can “feel” them. Essentially, it doesn’t matter the amount of hype or marketing or even video reviews are out there, your son is unique. Empower him to try them out and you may be surprised and what BBCOR baseball bat he selects!

Best of luck this next season and hope this article helped you decipher some of the BBCOR best baseball reviews out there and choose the right bat.  

Travel Baseball: The Ultimate Guide for Parents and Players

Table of Contents

What is travel baseball, what to look for in a travel baseball team, travel baseball vs. little league, travel baseball pros and cons , criticisms and controversy, is travel baseball worth it.

For many families, the transition from Little League to travel baseball comes with stress, anxiety and questions about what to look for in a team and what to expect from the experience — not to mention the question of whether making the switch from a more laid-back rec ball program to a more competitive (and expensive) travel club is the right decision in the first place.

In this post, we’re going to go over everything you need to know about getting started with youth travel baseball. We’ll help you answer the questions above and determine whether travel baseball is a good fit for your son or daughter. 

If you have a softball player in the family, you may also want to check out our article “ What to Look For in a Travel Softball Team ,” which covers some of the same information from a softball perspective and dives deep into my personal experience as an elite-level amateur player and college recruiting prospect.

Table of Contents :

• How to Choose a Travel Baseball Team
• Travel Baseball Pros and Cons
• Is Travel Baseball Worth It?  

First, it’s important to understand what a travel baseball team is and how travel baseball is organized. 

There are tens of thousands of travel baseball teams around the country, and their popularity has exploded over the past two decades. As recently as the 1990s, travel baseball was a niche experience limited mostly to elite players in baseball-rich areas like Texas and California. Today, participation is seen by many as a near necessity for talented players to develop their skills and hone their game against the best competition they can find. 

Whereas Little League is the dominant organization when it comes to recreational youth baseball, there are multiple organizations throughout the country that host hundreds of travel tournaments each year. Some of the biggest and most popular are USSSA (United States Speciality Sports Association), AAU (Amateur Athletic Union), Triple Crown Sports , and Perfect Game . Travel baseball teams often participate in tournaments organized by more than one of those organizations. 

A team can be started by anyone. Many are formed by parents, but many others are formed by high school and former college coaches. Depending on their organizational goals, some programs have just one team that participates in one age bracket (such as 10 and under), while some are run like businesses and have teams that compete in every age group. 

Some huge organizations, such as California Baseball Academy (CBA), even have multiple teams within the same age group, located in multiple cities. CBA has teams not only in California, but also in Nevada, Texas, Utah and the southeast. High-level programs like that are often known for attracting top talent, for training recruits into elite players, and for feeding those players into nearby colleges and universities. 

Travel Baseball Competition Structure

Virtually all travel baseball games are played on weekends in a tournament format. Those tournaments can theoretically be held anywhere, but are frequently held at multi-field facilities in easily-accessible travel hubs. For example, many Florida tournaments are held in Orlando because it’s in the relative center of the state, it has plenty of hotel rooms, and it’s home to many great baseball facilities. The farther you live away from such a hub, the more you should expect to travel. 

Most tournaments begin with pool play, meaning that teams are guaranteed a number of games before heading into single elimination. A team can expect to play anywhere from three to eight games over the course of a two-day or three-day tournament, depending on how they perform.

There is no set number of tournaments a team must participate in. Each team decides which tournaments to enter on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration factors such as age level, skill level, and cost. In general, two tournaments per month can be seen as about average, although higher-level teams may play more frequently. 

Most organizations run regional and national championships, which are invite-only. For example, USSSA hosts “qualifier” tournaments, where the winner of the championship game (and sometimes the runner up) can earn a bid to the USSSA national tournament.

Additionally, beginning at age 14, some teams start participating in “college exposure tournaments,” where college scouts come from across the country to watch and evaluate prospects. These tournaments are typically more expensive than regular tournaments, and are often farther away.

How to Join a Travel Baseball Team

If you’ve decided to join a travel baseball team and aren’t sure where to find one, there are a number of resources available. 

It may go without saying, but word-of-mouth can be a valuable first reference point. If you’re thinking about switching to travel baseball, chances are that you already know someone in your area who has made the jump. If so, don’t be afraid to ask them questions about the team and their experience. It’s a big commitment — both in terms of time and finances — so it’s important to make sure you find the right club for your son or daughter.

In addition to word of mouth, many organizations offer a list of active teams on their website. For example, USSSA has a tool that lets you filter teams by age level, skill level, and location . There are also many state-based forums and Facebook groups where coaches post their team’s tryouts (and positions needed). As an example, here are Facebook groups for travel baseball teams in Florida and Michigan ⁠— you can find similar groups for every state. 

Another good option is FieldLevel.com , which (like the USSSA site) allows you to filter teams by state and level. While not every team is listed on that website, it does include over 4,000 clubs.

Here are eight things to think about when evaluating teams. These factors will make a big difference when it comes to your overall experience, so take the time to think about them, and don’t be afraid to ask questions of parents and coaches.

1. Coaching  

A coaching staff can make or break a team. How coaches manage players, keep the game fun, instill the fundamentals, and focus on development — not only as athletes, but as young men and women — is extremely important. 

Some travel baseball teams have parents or grandparents serving as the head coach. While that can be fine, it’s important to make sure those coaches don’t make keeping their own child on the field a priority. Before committing to a team, spend some time researching it by watching a practice and talking to current and/or former players and parents. 

What’s the coaching style? Do they have high expectations but still encourage and love their players? Or, on the other hand, are they screaming at players when they make a mistake? 

Additionally, are players treated equitably, or do some get preferential treatment based on their relationship to the coach or their financial contribution to the team?

Ideally, your child will be a part of that team and organization for consecutive years, rather than bouncing from team to team. As such, determining whether the coaching staff is a good fit is a crucial first step.

2. Cost  

For many parents, this is the most terrifying aspect of travel baseball.

Just how much of a toll is this going to take on your bank account? The specific answer varies, but the typical range of cost for participating in travel baseball is between $500 and $2,500 per year. 

That said, you can end up spending a lot more than that. Back in 2011, CBS News reported that one Georgia family paid $4,000 per year for their 9-year-old son’s travel team. You can imagine that older players in elite programs that travel all over the country can spend even more over the course of a season.

Typically, the more intensely focused a program is on developing its players for college baseball, the more money the program is going to cost. On the other hand, teams that are playing more for the fun of it — those looking for just a little more structure and competition than offered by Little League — won’t put as much of a dent in your wallet.

There are a number of specific factors that go into how much it costs to be on a team:

• Where you live . If you live in a baseball hub, like Texas or California, you won’t have to travel as far to get to tournaments. Many teams from rural areas regularly drive across multiple states (or sometimes even fly) to tournaments. As such, where you live will likely be the single biggest variable in your overall travel baseball cost.
• Whether you have to buy your own equipment . Some teams are sponsored by equipment companies like Easton and Rawlings and have their bats, gloves and cleats provided either for free or at a reduced cost. Obviously, this can be a huge savings. Also, keep in mind that (unfortunately) equipment is often viewed as a status symbol in travel baseball. If your child joins a team where every other player has multiple bats and position-specific gloves, he or she is going to press you for similar gear.
• Whether you have to rent facilities . Some teams practice exclusively at public fields. Others have little or no access to such facilities and have to rent fields and/or indoor space (especially for winter workouts). This can have a huge impact on the overall cost of participation.
• Whether or not coaches are paid . Some teams — typically the more competitive ones — pay their coaches small stipends and/or cover their cost of travel. On one hand, this tends to lead to better coaching. On the other hand, families are the ones who will ultimately foot that bill.
• How competitive the team is . Higher-level tournaments typically have higher fees. Lower-level tournaments, operated on a more sub-regional basis, are usually much less expensive to enter. If cost is a concern, make sure you know what types of tournaments the team usually enters over the course of the season. 

3. Location  

As stated earlier, location is a key factor in deciding which travel team to play for. If you’re fortunate enough to live in California, Florida or Texas, you’re going to have a lot of opportunities to play with and against high-level competition right in your backyard. 

But outside of those states, it’s a little bit tougher, and you have to decide how committed you are to playing at the highest possible level. 

For example, if you live in a medium-sized town outside of a major baseball hub, chances are you have at least a couple of travel ball options. However, the odds are that those options are not the absolute cream of the crop when it comes to coaching and competitiveness. In order to play for the absolute “best” team possible, you might have to commute from your mid-sized town to the nearest major city. 

So you’ll be faced with the following choice: play on a lower level team that’s closer to home, or drive a hundred miles or more for twice-weekly practices? It may sound crazy, but many families do just that. 

Why would they commit so much time and money to their son or daughter’s athletic pursuits? It comes down to goals. Better teams often provide better coaching and more opportunities for exposure to college and professional scouts. 

What’s the team’s mission? Is the focus on fun, player development, college exposure, or a mix of all there? Teams can have many different goals and missions, and there’s no right or wrong approach.

However, it is possible that a team’s mission does not align with your values and goals, and you need to think about this before committing, as a compatibility mismatch can lead to coach-parent and coach-player tension. 

5. Organization

Consider the reputation of the organization you’re evaluating. When you join a team, you and your son or daughter will essentially be endorsing everything the program stands for. If they’re known for dirty play or being disrespectful to the game, you’ll be associated with that. 

And believe it or not, the baseball world is a small and surprisingly tight-knit community. College coaches tend to know which programs produce bad apples — and they avoid them. In fact, many college coaches will completely write off an entire organization that has a reputation for not playing the game the right way or for having disrespectful players.

6. Playing Time

There’s an important balance between getting enough playing time and being challenged. Before committing, ask the coaching staff what kind of playing time your child can expect — including at what position. 

If there are two returning shortstops, he or she most likely won’t be playing there and might have to learn another position. That’s not a bad thing: college coaches want players that are versatile, and many players change positions as they get older and their bodies develop. 

Still, it’s helpful to know what to expect ahead of time. Getting game reps is important from a development perspective, but also just from a fun perspective: no kid wants to consistently travel to a tournament only to sit on the bench for most of the weekend. 

7. Skill Level

Be realistic about your child’s skill level, and pay attention to the level of competition around him or her at tryouts (i.e., the skill levels of the other players). If your kid has the fight and desire to compete for a spot (like they’ll have to do if they make it to college ball), then putting them on a team where they’ll be challenged is the best option. 

But if he or she is there to have fun and make friends, with no burning desire to be constantly improving, then choosing a travel team that’s more low-key will be the better call.

8. What You’re Giving Up

Travel baseball tournaments are on weekends, and players often have to sacrifice certain things that are part of a normal childhood. 

Is your son or daughter willing to miss out on things like birthdays, sleepovers and school dances, because most of their time is spent doing homework, traveling to and from games and practices, practicing on their own (possibly including private lessons), and spending nearly every summer weekend at the ballpark?

And are they willing to sacrifice the material things that matter to kids — things like clothes, video games, new smartphones, etc. — because so much money is being spent on baseball? 

As I wrote in THV’s guide to travel softball , my family made major sacrifices to support my athletic pursuits. 

For some, their love of the game is so great that giving up these things is a no-brainer. For others, they may regret missing out on these social activities. And that’s perfectly fine! Just be honest with each other and talk about the true costs of travel baseball — because it’s not just the sticker price.

There are some important similarities and differences between competitive travel baseball and recreational baseball. Both can teach many valuable life skills, such as work ethic, good sportsmanship, teamwork and bouncing back from failure. But they are very different when it comes to time commitment and competitiveness.

The Little League schedule usually runs from the late spring through early summer, with teams practicing twice per week and playing two games per week. The total number of games per season varies, but it usually ranges from 10 to 20. It’s a local program, which means travel is either limited or non-existent. In general, Little League coaches are parents.

Little League can be a great place for kids as young as 4-years-old to start playing the game. They’ll learn the rules and the absolute basics of hitting, pitching and fielding in a fun an easy-going environment (except for the occasional parent that takes their coaching position overboard). 

Overall, Little League fits the classic stereotype of youth baseball: kids having fun playing the greatest game in the world, without much pressure or focus on player development. 

Back in the day, Little League would feed into middle school and high school programs, which carried the bulk of the weight when it came to getting payers ready for college and the pros. But today, the reality is that it’s almost impossible to get the coaching and skill development you need by participating only Little league or other rec ball programs. 

That’s especially true when it comes to the gap between “Majors” Little League (12-and-under) and high school. Few middle schools still have baseball programs, and those programs that do exist tend not to be very good. Likewise, while Little League offers both a Junior division (12-14) and a Senior division (14-16), those leagues tend to pale in comparison to the coaching and competition offered by travel ball. 

So, if your son or daughter is serious about playing baseball at a high level, it’s especially important to focus on the transition to travel ball at around the age of 11 or 12.

There are positives and negatives when it comes to travel baseball. Here are a few of each.

• Better competition : Players are more serious about the game and more driven to improve. This higher level of competition will help push your son or daughter to improve their own skills.
• Better coaching : Travel baseball coaches tend to be better qualified, more knowledgeable, and better-connected. At the highest levels of travel ball, teams often employ former professional coaches.
• More exposure : Aside from high school baseball, travel ball is the primary means of exposure to college coaches and pro scouts. Plus, travel teams often attend showcase tournaments and camps.
• More games played : Travel teams play significantly more games per year than rec ball teams.
• Facilitates travel : Sometimes seen as an ancillary benefit, the travel itself can be a valuable and eye-opening experience for players. Many kids don’t have an opportunity to travel out of their own area or state, and travel baseball can provide that. 
• Encourages character development : Because travel teams are more serious, there’s a greater emphasis put on things like being on time, demonstrating maximum effort, and having a good attitude.  
• Cost : Travel baseball is expensive — sometimes absurdly so. Families often spend around $2,500 per year, but the costs can be even higher. 
• Time commitment : Even a moderately competitive travel team can consume an entire summer’s worth of weekends. 
• Ultra-competitive : On most travel teams, there’s a balance between player development and winning. What you won’t often find is an “everybody plays” approach. For the most part, the best players will play the most, which makes for a highly-competitive environment. 
• Tougher workouts : This can be a pro or a con, depending on the player’s perspective and goals. Tougher workouts can lead to better outcomes, but they can also be mentally and physically taxing if the player isn’t fully invested.
• Lack of diversity : Because travel baseball is expensive, it has often been criticized for a lack of socioeconomic and racial diversity. 

Travel baseball provides many benefits and can be a valuable opportunity for players who are serious about the game and committed to playing at the highest possible level. However, it’s not without its share of criticism and controversy. 

In an essay titled “ Left Out ,” MLB superstar Andrew McCutchen wrote about how kids like him, who grow up in low-income families, are often excluded from travel baseball and thus systematically disadvantaged when it comes to development and exposure: 

“When you’re a kid from a low-income family who has talent, how do you get recognized? Now, you have to pay thousands of dollars for the chance to be noticed in showcase tournaments in big cities. My parents loved me, but they had to work hard to put food on the table, and there wasn’t much left over. They didn’t have the option of skipping a shift to take me to a tournament over the weekend. […] That’s the challenge for families today. It’s not about the $100 bat. It’s about the $100-a-night motel room and the $30 gas money and the $300 tournament fee. 

[…] If you’re a poor kid with raw ability, it’s not enough.”

McCutchen was lucky: an AAU coach “discovered” him at the age of 13 and covered his travel ball expenses. But most kids from similar situations aren’t so fortunate. 

Why is this important for you, the parent of a child thinking about joining a travel team? 

On one hand, it’s important to be aware of how the systems we participate in affect our society. But on a much more specific level, you should know that your child will be entering a largely homogenous environment.

On top of that, kids from lower-income families can often feel out of place in travel ball — especially if they don’t come to the ballpark with the latest, top-quality gear like their teammates. This social dynamic can have a powerful impact on your child’s experience. 

Additionally, travel baseball means that both your family and your child will be spending less time within your own community.

There’s been a lot written in recent years about how travel baseball may be contributing to the erosion of communities , because it pulls families out of local baseball programs that once served as important civic institutions.

This is evidenced by the sharply declining participation in Little League. In the organization’s Southeast Region (a hotbed for a travel baseball), the number of Little League players has plunged by nearly 50% since 2007 . 

So we’ve come to the biggest question: Is travel ball worth it?

If you want to improve your skills and have the best chance to play in college or the pros, travel baseball is the way to go. But remember: there is a range of cost and time commitment within travel baseball. Your son or daughter doesn’t necessarily have to opt for the most expensive travel team in order to be sufficiently challenged (and later on, to get noticed by college coaches). 

Your goal in evaluating teams should be to find the right balance of: 

• Financial commitment 
• Time commitment
• Intangible sacrifices (school events, community involvement, etc.) 
• Baseball goals

After reading this article, you should have a very solid understanding of what Little League and travel baseball have in common, their differences, and what you should be looking for in a club. 

Remember, this is your child’s choice to. Help them see the pros and cons of each option. And although we stated it earlier, we cannot stress this enough: you cannot dictate your son or daughter’s commitment to the game of baseball. It’s up to them. So, support them in whatever capacity they want to participate. If you do, they’ll never regret or forget the amazing experiences, friends, and lessons learned playing this great game.

The Hitting Vault is the most popular, most trusted and highest rated online hitting community.

Alexa Peterson

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Learn About USSSA Baseball Bats

USSSA, United States Speciality Sports Association, is commonly thought of as the governing body of tournaments or “travel ball.” Consequently, they have created the 1.15BPF stamp which must be displayed on all bats used in their events. This is a measurement of how fast the ball comes off the bat after contact. Effectively, a 1.15 BPF means an increase of 15% compared to a solid object. Additionally, the barrel diameter cannot exceed 2 3/4“. USSSA bats are allowed to perform at a higher level than other bats such as USA bats. This performance benefit makes them the preferred choice for players playing in USSSA events. They come in a variety of lengths and drops, so be sure to select the one that is best for you by clicking our sizing guide here.

How to Choose the Right USSSA Baseball Bat for You

When selecting a USSSA bat, the array of options can be overwhelming, especially considering the various lengths and drops available. Our comprehensive baseball bat buying guide and baseball bat size chart can assist you in making an informed choice. Additionally, it's imperative to consider the USSSA Guidelines, which specify the allowable drop for each age group, ensuring compliance with regulations. After determining the appropriate length and weight, the next step is to opt for a suitable bat material. You have the choice between aluminum or composite bats, available in either one-piece or two-piece construction. Understanding the distinctions is key: One-piece bats offer a firmer feel upon contact, facilitating greater energy transfer, but may transmit more vibrations to the hands. Conversely, two-piece bats offer some flexibility, allowing for increased whip upon contact, typically boasting a larger barrel, and minimizing vibrations to the hands. Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each option and select the one that aligns best with your playing style and preferences.

USSSA Bat Size Chart

Usssa baseball bats faqs, what are the usssa bat drop rules.

The minimum drop USSSA restricts all ages 13U to is a -8. In 14U the lightest bat you can use is a -5. However, in ages younger than 13U there is no restriction on weight or length as long as the bat has a USSSA BPF 1.15 stamp.

Why can’t Little League use USSSA bats?

Little League and USSA are two separate youth baseball organizations and have different rules and regulations for the bats you can use. USSSA bats are higher performing than USA bats and therefore do not meet the safety standards set by Little League. Only USA bats can be used in Little League.

Can you use a USSSA bat in USA Baseball?

No, USSSA bats are not allowed in USA Baseball. USSSA bats are allowed to perform at a higher level giving hitters an advantage when compared to USA baseball bats. Consequently, they are not allowed and players are restricted to only USA-approved bats in USA Baseball events.

Can you use USSSA bats in travel ball?

Yes, USSSA bats are typically used in travel ball tournaments. However, you should check your tournament’s rules for the bat guidelines. When given the choice, it is recommended hitters swing a USSSA baseball bat. USSSA bats are allowed to perform at a higher level giving hitters an advantage when compared to USA baseball bats.

At what age can kids use USSSA bats?

USSSA bats are for players aged 8U-14U playing in USSSA events or events that follow USSSA bat rules.

What does the 1.15 mean on a USSSA bat?

The "1.15" on a USSSA bat refers to the Bat Performance Factor (BPF) standard for USSSA-approved bats. It's a measurement that represents the "exit speed ratio" of the bat, which compares the speed of the ball coming off the bat to the initial pitch speed. In simpler terms, it measures the "pop" or "trampoline effect" of the bat. Effectively, a 1.15 BPF means the bat is limited to an energy increase of 15% compared to a solid object.

USSSA Baseball Bat Buying Guides

Best baseball bats for 2024: top baseball bat reviews, proper batting stance for baseball players, other great choices.

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The 15 Best USSSA Baseball Bats For Your Slugger

by Chris Bajda May 16, 2024

  Are you looking for the perfect bat for your power hitter? Look no further than the world of USSSA bats. With the ever-evolving technology and innovations in the baseball world, USSSA bats have become a go-to choice for many players. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or just starting out, having the right bat can make all the difference in your performance on the field. That's why we've compiled a list of the 15 best USSSA bats for your slugger. 

From two piece composite to one piece alloy, from the hype fire to the sweet spot, Baseball Bat Bros has tested and reviewed these bats to help you find the perfect fit for your game. So let's dive into the world of USSSA bats and find the best one for you!

1.   2024 Easton Hype Fire

Price:  $349.95.

The 2024 Easton Hype Fire is a standout in the lineup of USSSA bats, designed for players seeking to elevate their game with a combination of explosive power and unmatched speed. 

This bat lives up to its "hype fire" reputation, featuring a state-of-the-art construction that optimizes weight distribution for rapid swing speeds while maintaining a solid impact feel. 

2.  Louisville Slugger 2023 Atlas 2 ⅝

Price:  $249.95.

The Louisville Slugger 2023 Atlas 2 5/8 stands out in the realm of USSSA bats for its innovative design and performance on the field. Engineered for precision and power, this bat boasts a big sweet spot, making it easier for players to connect with the ball and send it flying. 

Its balanced weight distribution ensures players can swing with speed and control, enhancing their ability to hit with power. 

3.   Easton Black Magic 2¾

Price:  $279.99.

The Easton Black Magic 2¾ inches is a game-changer in the lineup of USSSA bats, offering a blend of innovation and tradition. This model is renowned for its extended barrel design, which maximizes the hitting surface area and provides an unparalleled sweet spot size. 

Its one-piece aluminum construction delivers a solid, responsive feel, making it an excellent choice for players who value precision alongside power. The bat's lightweight nature allows for rapid swing speeds, enhancing player performance at critical moments. 

4.   Rawlings ICON

The Rawlings ICON shines among USSSA bats, offering players a harmonious blend of balance and power. This bat is celebrated for its precision-crafted barrel, engineered to provide a consistent, responsive feel across the entire hitting surface. 

Its lightweight construction allows for swift, controlled swings, making it a favorite for players looking to enhance their hitting accuracy and power. 

5.   Axe Avenge Pro

Price:  $349.99.

The Axe Avenge Pro makes its mark among USSSA bats with its revolutionary design, geared towards optimizing performance and reducing injury risk. 

This bat features the patented Axe Handle, which promotes a more ergonomic grip, allowing hitters to swing more naturally and with greater bat speed. Constructed with a premium MX8 Alloy barrel, it delivers explosive power and a massive sweet spot, ensuring that every hit has the potential to change the game.

6.  Victus Vibe

Price:  $199.99.

The Victus Vibe emerges as a distinguished contender among USSSA baseball bats, masterfully blending piece alloy and piece composite materials to offer a unique hitting experience. This usssa bat is designed for hitters seeking a lightweight, yet powerful bat, with its composite handle working to reduce vibration and enhance comfort during play. 

The alloy barrel ensures a responsive feel, promising a significant pop and durability.  Perfect for players who prioritize speed and precision, the Victus Vibe stands as a testament to the innovative fusion of composite bats technology and alloy performance.

7.   Louisville Slugger Meta 2¾

The Louisville Slugger Meta 2¾ inches is at the forefront of USSSA bats, boasting cutting-edge technology for serious players. This bat is celebrated for its EKO Composite Barrel, offering a light swing weight while maintaining a huge barrel size and sweet spot. 

It’s designed for the player who aims for the fences, providing a blend of speed and power at the plate.

8.   Avenge Pro 3

Price:  $349.95 - $349.99.

Building on the success of its predecessors, the Avenge Pro 3 emerges as a titan in the world of USSSA bats. This iteration introduces enhancements in the barrel technology and a more refined Axe Handle design, pushing the boundaries of comfort and performance. 

Its optimized weight distribution and improved composite material result in a bat that offers both lightning-fast swing speeds and a significantly enlarged sweet spot. 

9.  Victus NOX 2

Price:  $299.99.

The Victus NOX 2 emerges as a formidable contender among USSSA bats, crafted for those who thrive on a blend of speed and power. This bat is a hybrid, featuring an aluminum barrel paired with a carbon composite handle, designed to minimize vibrations and provide a more comfortable feel upon impact. 

Its unique two-piece construction enhances the whip effect during the swing, allowing hitters to generate more power without sacrificing control.

10.   Easton Encore Hybrid

Price:  $189.95 - $ 259.95.

The Easton Encore Hybrid stands out in the world of USSSA baseball bats as a premium option that combines the latest in bat technology. 

This piece composite bat leverages a hybrid construction to offer a perfect balance of power and speed, making it an exceptional choice for players aiming to elevate their game. Its composite barrel is engineered for an expansive sweet spot, providing hitters with the maximum impact on contact. Additionally, the alloy handle of this USSSA bat ensures durability and a stiff feel, enhancing the player's control and confidence at the plate.

11.   Marucci CAT8

Price:  $99.95 - $129.95.

The Marucci CAT8 is a standout among USSSA baseball bats, known for its remarkable strength and precision. Unlike typical composite bats, the CAT8 is crafted from a single piece of alloy, providing a smoother, more responsive feel upon contact. 

This usssa bat boasts a multi-variable wall design, which enhances the sweet spot and minimizes negative vibrations, allowing for a comfortable yet powerful swing.

12.  Victus Vandal Lev3

The Victus Vandal Lev3 is a tour-de-force in the lineup of USSSA baseball bats, uniquely blending piece alloy and piece composite technologies. This USSSA bat is meticulously engineered to optimize performance, offering an ultra-balanced design that caters to high-speed swings without sacrificing power. 

Unlike typical composite bats, the Vandal Lev3 features a ringless barrel made from a single piece of alloy, which works in tandem with a composite end cap to reduce weight at the bat's end. 

13.  DeMarini ZOA

Price:  $159.95 - $189.95.

The DeMarini ZOA positions itself as a standout among USSSA bats, embodying the pinnacle of innovation with its piece composite design. It’s engineered for players who seek the hype fire on the field, providing an explosive feel with every swing. 

The ZOA is crafted with a Direct Connection handle to ensure maximum energy transfer and a piece alloy barrel that delivers a harmonious balance of speed and power.

14.   DeMarini 2024 Zoa JBB

Price:  $248.90 - $299.95.

The DeMarini 2024 Zoa JBB is a fresh addition to the DeMarini lineup of USSSA bats, specifically designed to cater to the younger power hitters. This junior big barrel model is lightweight and crafted with a composite material that offers an exceptional balance of speed and power, tailored for the aggressive swings of up-and-coming players. 

Its construction focuses on enhancing the player's ability to achieve rapid swing speeds while maintaining a solid feel and explosive impact with the ball, perfect for those looking to make their mark on the field.

15.   2024 Rawlings Mach AI

Price:  $279.95.

The 2024 Rawlings Mach AI redefines excellence in USSSA baseball bats, integrating AI technology to optimize weight distribution and enhance swing speed. This cutting-edge bat features a precision-engineered barrel, tailored for peak performance and unmatched pop. 

Its lightweight, composite construction offers an exceptional balance, enabling hitters to achieve quicker bat speeds and more powerful contact. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: what bats are banned from usssa.

A1: USSSA (United States Specialty Sports Association) has specific guidelines regarding the bats allowed in their leagues. Generally, USSSA bans certain bats that do not meet their performance standards or have been deemed unsafe for use. These standards often relate to the material, construction, and performance of the bat.

Q2: Do USSSA bats lose their pop?

A2: USSSA bats can lose their pop over time, just like any other baseball or softball bat. Factors such as frequency of use, impact force, and storage conditions can contribute to a bat losing its effectiveness over time. Additionally, as bats are used, they may become damaged or worn, affecting their performance.

Q3: Is USSSA better than BBCOR?

A3: Whether USSSA or BBCOR (Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution) is better depends on the context. USSSA bats are typically used in youth and amateur baseball and softball leagues, while BBCOR bats are used in high school and collegiate leagues. USSSA bats are designed to have higher performance levels to enhance the experience for younger players, whereas BBCOR bats are standardized to ensure fair play and safety at higher levels of competition.

Q4: Why can t Little League use USSSA bats?

A4: Little League has its own set of rules and regulations regarding the equipment allowed in its games. While USSSA bats may meet certain performance standards, Little League has opted to establish its own guidelines for bats. This decision could be based on factors such as safety, competitive balance, or maintaining the integrity of the game within the Little League organization.

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What is 13U Baseball? A Thorough Explanation

The other day I was writing an article on different youth baseball programs and I quickly came to realize that there is not much information on the web about what different types of youth baseball programs are out there. So I decided to do a little bit of research and put together this quick guide to help other people understand the same question I had – what is 13U baseball?

13U baseball is a youth baseball league where players who are 13 years old and younger can participate. The overall rules for 13U baseball are governed by the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), which has multiple 13U baseball leagues and tournaments across the United States.

Even though the USSSA sets the overall rules for 13U baseball , each 13U league could have its own set of special rules if they choose. There are also two types of 13U baseball – “54/80 13U” and “60/90 13U”.

Article Contents

Age and Eligibility Rules for 13U Baseball

Base path distance for 13u baseball, pitching distance for 13u baseball, 13u 50/80 division vs 13u 60/90 divison, 13u baseball field dimensions, 13u baseball games can end early due to weather or mercy rule, rest day rules for 13u pitchers, 13u bat rules, 13u baseball tournaments, 13u baseball is different than little league.

One of the first things that parents want to know is how old their kid has to be to play in a 13U baseball league. What age is 13U baseball?

13U baseball can be played by any player under the age of 13, regardless of what grade they are in. If a player turns 14 before May 1st of the current year, they are only eligible if they are in 7th grade. Any player who turns 14 prior to August 1st of the current year is ineligible for 13U baseball.

According to the USSSA, it’s possible for a 14-year-old to play in a 13U baseball league, but that player must turn 14 before May 1st and they must be in 7th grade. If the player does not meet these criteria, they will be eligible for 14U baseball.

The next question parents may wonder is if a 12-year-old can play 13U baseball.

In general, a 12-year-old is eligible to play in a 13U baseball league. Although each 13U baseball league can be set up slightly differently so it’s best to check with that league’s baseball director or check that league’s rules around a player’s eligibility.

When it comes to these baseball leagues, the “U” in “13U” stands for “under”. So a 13U baseball league typically means that any player who is 13 years of age and younger is eligible to play.

Base Distances and Pitching Distances for 13U Baseball

As kids get older, the distances for the bases and pitcher’s mound start to increase. 13U baseball is a little different because there are two types of divisions and each of these divisions is broken down by base distance and pitching distance.

Let’s start off by discussing base distance. How far are the bases for 13U baseball?

In 13U baseball, the bases are 80 feet apart for the 13U 50/80 division and 90 feet apart for the 13U 60/90 division. Part of the reason these divisions get their name has to do with how far apart the bases are from one another.

After we know the distance from one base to another, the next question people wonder is what distance does 13U pitch from?

In 13U baseball, the pitching distance is 50 feet for the 13U 50/80 division and 60 feet for the 13U 60/90 division. Part of the reason these divisions get their name has to do with how far pitchers are throwing from the mound to home plate.

At first glance, these numbers may seem random. But if we dive deeper into what each of these numbers mean, it starts to make more sense. What’s the difference between 50/80 and 60/90 for 13U baseball?

In 13U baseball, 50/80 means the pitching distance is 50 feet and the base path distance is 80 feet while 60/90 means the pitching distance is 60 feet and the base path distance is 90 feet.

So depending on a player or a parent’s decision, a 13U baseball player has the option to play on a diamond where the distances are further or shorter.

Just like with the distances of the base paths and pitching mound, the dimensions of a baseball field also expand as a player gets older. How big are 13U baseball fields?

In 13U 54/80 baseball, both right and left field are 275 feet from home plate while center field is 300 feet from home plate. In 13U 60/90 baseball, both right and left field are 320 feet from home plate while center field is 375 feet from home plate.

While not all baseball fields are made the same, the numbers listed above are the recommended dimensions of each baseball field according to USSSA.

For the other dimensions of the 13U baseball diamond, like the height and slope of the mound, how big the batter’s box and catcher’s box can be, and how big each of the bases should be, USSSA recommends following the official rules of baseball according to the MLB.

13U Baseball Games Are 7 Innings or 1 Hour and 45 Minutes

Following a similar pattern to how the field dimensions get bigger and the base paths get longer as player’s age, the length of the game also tends to increase. How many innings are in a 13U baseball game? And how long are 13U baseball games?

As a general rule, 13U baseball games last 7 innings or 1 hour and 45 minutes, whichever comes first. A 13U baseball game has the potential to extend beyond 1 hour and 45 minutes, but a new inning cannot begin after 1 hour and 45 minutes have been played.

Keep in mind that this time limit is a generality and some leagues or tournaments can vary this time. For example, the World Baseball Academy has 13U games lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes, Disney Youth Baseball has 13U games lasting 2 hours, and USA Sports NC has 13U games lasting 1 hour and 40 minutes.

It’s usually a good idea to check your league’s rules around time limits for 13U baseball games, but most 13U games will last around 1 hour and 45 minutes.

If the weather picks up and the umpire determines play cannot continue, a game could end early if the game is far enough along.

For a game to be completed due to weather, 4 innings must have been played. If the home team was winning after three and a half innings and the game is called due to weather, the home team will be declared the winner. This works similarly to how a home team does not have to bat in the bottom of the last inning if they are winning.

A game also has the possibility of ending early due to the mercy rule. What is the mercy rule in 13U baseball?

In 13U baseball, the mercy rule is enforced when one team is winning by 15 runs after 3 innings, 12 runs after 4 innings, or 8 runs after 5 innings. If the home team scores the required number of runs in the bottom of one of these innings, the home team will stop batting and the game will end.

Pitching is an important aspect in any baseball league, but USSSA places more emphasis on protecting the arms of young pitchers by implementing rules around how often they can pitch. What are the 13U pitch count rules?

In 13U baseball, pitchers are allowed to pitch the next day if they throw 3 or fewer innings in one day. If they throw more than 3 innings, they must rest for a minimum of one day. In addition, 13U pitchers can throw a maximum of 8 innings in a three-day window.

With these rules, it’s possible for a 13u pitcher to throw three days in a row by throwing 3 innings on the first day, 3 innings on the second day, and 2 innings on the third day. After this pitcher has thrown 8 innings in a three-day window, they need a minimum of one day of rest before they can pitch again.

Every level of baseball has different rules around which bats are legal and the USSSA has implemented its own rules around legal bats for 13U players . What bat is legal for 13U baseball?

In 13U baseball, players are allowed to use an aluminum bat with a maximum drop of -8 that also has the official USSSA logo stamp.

If a batter is caught using an illegal bat, the first offense is the player will be called out and possibly ejected from the game. If a team is caught using an illegal bat a second time, the manager will be ejected from the game.

And if an umpire catches an illegal bat after a ball has been put into play, the defensive team has the option to keep the result of the play or have the batter called out and have the baserunners return to where they were prior to the illegal bat being used.

Looking for more info on illegal baseball bats? Read my other article on what makes a baseball bat illegal .

One of the exciting things about 13U baseball is that there are a lot of different tournaments all over the United States and they happen at all times of the year. But how do you find 13U baseball tournaments near you?

If you’re looking for a 13U baseball tournament, the best place to check is USSSA’s website. USSSA has an event section on their website where you can search all the available events located in your state.

If the event is not full, managers are able to log into their manager’s account and register their team for that tournament. Go to the event section on USSSA’s website to view a list of events and tournaments.

Another thing to keep in mind is that 13U baseball is different than Little League. In Little League, players who are 13 years old can play in either the “ Intermediate (50/70) ” division (ages 11-13), the “ Junior League ” (ages 12-14), or the “ Senior League ” (ages 13-16). If a 13-year-old player wants to play on a 13U baseball team, they’ll need to go through a team that is associated with the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) .

Steve Nelson

Best Baseball Bats For 13 Year Olds | Top 13u baseball bats

Baseball is America’s most played game and almost a favorite one. About 160 years ago this game was introduced as the National game of America. According to many experts, baseball was first originated in England but in today’s world, it is one of the most popular games throughout the western world.

At this time, not just the adults but the school and collegiate gain interest in this game. The age of 13 is such a time when boys and girls accumulate the highest zeal for this game. The main equipment’s of this game is a bat and a ball. To get the best baseball bats for 13 year olds, this article can help you.

Here is the Quick List

Table Of Content

Demarini 2019 cf (-5) senior league baseball bat..

• Louisville Slugger 2018 Select 718 (-5) USA Baseball Bat.

DeMarini 2018 CFX – 11 FastPitch Bat.

Demarini cf zen balanced bbcor (-3) baseball bat, louisville slugger solo 618 (-11) usa baseball bat, louisville slugger fastpitchxeno, demarini 2018 voodoo (-10) 2 5/8″ balanced usa baseball bat., demarini 2018 cfx insane – 10 endload fast pitch bat.

• DeMarini 2019 CF Zen (-8) Senior League 2 3/4 Baseball Bat.
• Louisville Slugger 2018 Select 718 (-10) 2 5 /8″ USA Baseball Bat.

What is a baseball bat?

A baseball bat is not like the other bats like cricket bats. Different parts of this bat have different functions. A bat comprises about 5 different parts in total. The most important part of a bat is barrel, comparatively spacious and wider tube-like part. A barrel holds the sweet spot that is used to hit the ball. On the top of the barrel, an End cap is attached that help to maintain the perfect balance. A handle is attached to the barrel. It is thinner than the barrel and the hitter grabs the handle to hold it. A grip wraps the handle so that your hands don’t slip from the bat. At the end of the handle, a knob is attached for safety.

The standard size of a baseball bat for 13 years old.

A baseball bat can vary in size and weight. You just need to find the right size bat for your child. The perfect size varies in accordance with the player’s height and weight and of course the age. But there is an easy method to select it correctly. You can measure the size from the middle point of your chest to your index finger when keeping your hand straight. This size can be the perfect size bat in length. Furthermore, you can also select a bat through its drop. The bat drop indicates the gap between its lengths to weight. The standard bat drop can vary from 10 to 13 for a 13u baseball bat.

The price range for 13u baseball bat.

According to a bats company and function, the cost may vary. But from our research, we have found that the prices vary from 90 to 350 USD. Some DeMarini bats are good in features with an under 100 or 150 $. Again some above 300$ bats are also stunning in performance and function. You just need to make a proper budget as well as the proper size bat for your child.

Here we make a list of top ten best baseball bats for 13 years old. We hope this article helps you to choose the right one from thousands of bats.

DeMarini is an American sports equipment especially baseball bat manufacturer. For about 30 years, DeMarini tries to produce more equivalent and comfy baseball bats. For Little League, DeMarini, most of the time launches drop 11, drop 12 or drop 13 Baseball Bat. CF and Voodoo are the most common bat series of this company. Among the CF series bats, DeMarini 2019 CF (-5) Senior League Baseball Bat is one of the best baseball bats for 13 year old.

Check Price

Materials:  The bat is made with Paraflex Composite Construction and this composite is well-known because it enhances consistency and power. You are also allowed to grab it of any of its different sizes that vary from 30 to 33 inches in length and 25 to 28 oz. in weight. So the length to weight ratio of this bat is 5.

Barrel and handle: DeMarini 2019 CF (-5) Senior League Baseball Bat is the newly refurbished baseball bat by DeMarini. The bat is featured with 3 fusion handle that helps you to control and distribute the weight of the bat perfectly. Besides 3 fusion end cap is also used for a large sweet spot as well as for a perfect balance.

The barrel of this bat is about 2 5/8 inches diameter. It is quite responsive and strong enough to provide a eye-catching durability. Its high-quality materials let you hit the ball with no strings and no dead spots. Furthermore, it reduces vibration. At the end of the handle, the bat ends with an X-light knob.

Why we will recommend it: It is true that the bat’s drop is quite low though it is very good to use according to its users. If your 13 year old baseball lover is supposed to be the one, for whom you want to grab a bat then I will recommend it for him because of its high-quality materials and new technologies that are used for this bat.

Louisville Slugger 2018 Select 718 (-5) USA Baseball Bat .

Kentucky’s Louisville is a renowned Minor League Baseball Bat manufacturer of America. Louisville’s Slugger, Omaha and Select series baseball bats are especially known for their great performance. In the middle of Select series Baseball Bat, Louisville Slugger 2018 Select 718 (-5) USA Baseball Bat is an exclusive one and specially made for the young players.

Size and weight:  A baseball bat’s size and weight are two important facts that you need to know to choose the correct bat for players. This bat’s size varies from 30 to 32 inches in length and weight differs from 25 to 27 oz. So the length to weight ratio is 5. On another side, the barrel’s size is 2 5/8 inches in diameter.

Louisville Slugger 2018 Select 718 (-5) USA Baseball Bat is featured with different stunning and fabulous materials for its different parts. Besides strong materials, exclusive technologies like TRU3 technology is used for free movement. The bat is of the mixture of four standard colors like black, blue, green and silver.

Barrel and handle:  The barrel of this bat is made with hybrid construction with ST 7U1+ alloy. The barrel is attached with a 100% composite handle that will help you by increasing the bat’s durability and power. On the top of the barrel, there is New speed Ballistic end cap that means SBC cap. The handle is wrapped up with a Custom Lizard skins Premium performance grip. Besides the connection between the barrel and the handle is elastomeric and systematic. This one reduces vibration.

Why we will recommend it:  Louisville Slugger 2018 Select 718 (-5) USA Baseball Bat can be a very good choice if you are looking for a baseball bat for your young batters. A very important fact is, this bat is approved by Little League, Pony, and Dixie etc. So you don’t need to be worried to grab this bat.

America’s renowned baseball bat and other sports equipment manufacturer DeMarini is producing baseball bats for about 30 years. This company supplies bats for more than 150 colleges of America. DeMarini’s CFX and CF Zen series bats are quite familiar in the baseball ground. DeMarini 2018 CFX (-11) FastPitch Bat is one of CFX’s best bats.

Barrel:  The bat is a very light in weight and the length to weight ratio is 11. The bat varies in size from 28 to 30 inches in length and 17 to 22 oz. in weight. Besides the barrel is 2 1/4 inches diameter and so the bat provides a large sweet spot. This barrel is crafted with 22% stronger parafex composite. The barrel is again attached to a 3 Fusion end cap on its top and this end cap helps to make a free movement.

Handle:  DeMarini 2018 CFX (-11) FastPitch Bat’s barrel is attached with a strong and durable handle. This handle is made with 3 Fusion technology and designed after the half and half two pieces design. This technology reduces vibration. Again the handle ends with a RCK knob that is fit for the player’s hand.

Why we will recommend it:  All the above features of DeMarini 2018 CFX (-11) Fastpitch Bat are enough to mesmerize your junior baseball lovers. Again this bat is approved by USSSA, NSA, ASA etc. and in accordance with most of its user’s reviews, this is the best bat they have ever bought. So we recommend it with the highest appreciation.

For a long time DeMarini is known as America’s most familiar baseball bat and other sporting accessories manufacturer. This company develops bats with newer and stronger materials and technologies day by day. DeMarini has made some next level bats which are known as CF series composite bat and Voodoo Aluminum bats. So DeMarini CF Zen Balanced BBCOR Baseball Bat is a next level one.

Barrel:  The bat has a 2 5/8 inches barrel diameter and it is made with 22% stronger Paraflex composite. It is, in fact, a custom built bat with 2 piece alloy. The barrel starts with a 3 Fusion end cap. This bat is designed with the peak of bat technology. This fact helps to optimize the strike. Even the low pro end cap will modify the swing weight as well as the sound of the bat’s strike.

Handle: DeMarini 2019 CF Zen Balanced BBCOR Baseball Bat is featured with a D-Fusion 2.0 handle which will enhance and redirect the energy. A RCK knob is used to make the ending of the bat. The handle is also featured with 3 Fusion technology.

For some users, this bat is not that much durable to depend on it. One another side some other users complains about it’s overpriced. But most of the users are satisfied with it. This bat is certified for the high school and collegiate.

Why we will recommend it:  Though some negative reviews cause its comparatively lower reviews, it is still a bestselling of DeMarini. This bat is exclusively made for the players who prefer Balanced and controlled swing. Again its stunning technology and features will blow your mind. So this bat is also a recommend one.

Louisville is a very homely sports equipment American company. The Louisville’s Slugger Solo series and Slugger Omaha series bats are publicly reputed for their fabulous design and amazing durability. Louisville Slugger Solo 618 USA Baseball bat is especially famous among the young baseball lovers. In fact, it is one of the best kid pitch baseball bats.

Materials: This bat is actually a 1 piece alloy bat with the SL Hyper alloy construction. So it is a durable bat and it varies in its sizes like 28 to 32 inches in length and 17 to 21 oz. in weight. So you have options to select the right size bat for your child in accordance with his or her age, height and weight. This bat’s length to weight ratio is 11 and so it should be clear that it is a very light weighted bat.

Barrel and handle:  If we think about a baseball bat, Barrel is the most important part of a baseball bat because it is the spot, the ball is hit with. It comprises the sweet spot and on the top of it, there is an end cap that helps to Balance the bat properly. And the handle is attached to the barrel and a batter holds the handle to strike. At the end of the handle, a strong knob waits to catch your hand when to slip.

Louisville Slugger Solo 618 USA Baseball bat is featured with a 2 5/8 inches barrel with 1 piece weightless alloy. This barrel starts with a new speed Ballistic (SBC) end cap. The handle is crafted with the anti-vibration technology. The grip that wraps the handle is made with the strong lizard skin premium performance grip and this is the reason the players who don’t prefer gloves just love to hold it.

Though the handle is made with the anti-vibration technology, some users has complained that it creates vibration when the player is going to hit the ball. Besides for some other users, the barrel of this bat is comparatively smaller and so the sweet spot.

Why we will recommend it:  Louisville Slugger Solo 618 USA Baseball bat is accepted by USABat and many reputed organizations like little league. Furthermore, it is affordable and an easy to get product. Besides you can get it with a mixture of different colors like white, blue, red, black gray etc. of it. It is mild in weight and featured with lots of mesmerizing technologies. So this is also a recommended bat for your 13 year old boy.

Louisville of Kentucky, America, is one of the best leading baseball bats and other sporting accessories, manufacturer. Louisville Slugger has produced baseball bats for years and by different associations, it is approved. Louisville Slugger FastpitchXeno bats are particularly famous for their stunning performance and durability.

Materials:  The bat is of 100% composite design. The bat differs in size from 30 to 32 inches in length and 19 to 21 oz. in weight. So you can make choice of different sizes in accordance with the player’s height and weight. The bat is also represented with a mixture of 3 colors like white, gray and purple. This bat is approved for the high school and collegiate. Again it is also approved by USSSA, ASA, ISA etc.

Barrel and handle:  Louisville Slugger FastpitchXeno bats are featured with 2 1/4 inches barrel diameter. The barrel is crafted with S1iD technology. This technology will help you by making it flexible with lots of pop as well as a large sweet spot. The IST technology 2 piece bat construction makes the connection between the barrel and handle together.

The bat has a standard size handle that is 7/8 inches in length. The handle is thin enough to hold comfortably. A comfortable synthetic taped grip is used to wrap the handle. So for those batters who don’t prefer to use gloves, this grip will come as a great use. A New Ultra-Lightweight X cap is used at the top of the barrel and it helps to get a balanced swing weight. But some users raise questions about its durability.

Why we will recommend it:  Louisville Slugger FastpitchXeno bats is a very inexpensive and easy to get type bat. For your little hitter who needs some 13u baseball bats, this one can be a perfect choice. So I recommend this bat as good baseball bat for 13 year olds.

DeMarini is a sporting equipment and Baseball Bat manufacturer of America. DeMarini 2018 Voodoo and CF series are two most familiar bat series for junior high school and college players. All the bats are very homely in the baseball ground throughout the world. DeMarini 2018 Voodoo 2 5/8″ Balanced USA Baseball Bat is an amazing product of DeMarini and it is one of the best baseball bats for 13 year old.

Materials:   The bat differs in size from 28 to 32 inches in length and 18 to 22 oz in weight. This bat is crafted with one piece X14 thick aluminum alloy. This material helps to distribute the weight through the bat. It is a 3*3*31 inches bat designed with a hybrid system. The bat is represented with a mixture of three standard colors which are white, red and black. But for some users, it is slight weighty but not enough to be a reason of your irritation.

Barrel and handle:   The long spacious and solid tube of a bat is called the barrel which comprises the sweet spot with which the ball is hit. A long barrel refers to a long sweet spot that makes your perfect hits. DeMarini 2018 Voodoo bat grants you to have a long sweet spot. The barrel is 2 5/8 inch long that will offer lots of pop. But in accordance with some users reviews, it causes a minute sense of trembling.

The long and comparatively thinner part, adjacent to the barrel is the handle that ends with a knob that reduces the probability of unexpected falling. This bat is featured with a 3 fusion handle with a 3 fusion end cap. In addition, it is made with a strong paraflex composite technology. Furthermore, the handle is wrapped with a comfy grip to protect the connection between your hands and the bat with a properly balanced way. So for those hitters who don’t like to wear gloves, will love it.

Why we will recommend it:  DeMarini 2018 Voodoo bat is an amazing baseball bat. Besides, this bat is certified by lots of renowned organizations like Little League, USA bat, Pony, Dixie etc. These are the reasons of the honest recommendation for those bats and so you can grab it for you little baseball lovers.

DeMarini, the name of a world’s most respected and renowned sports equipment manufacturer and particularly known for their best baseball bats. CFX is their bestselling bat series of this company. DeMarini 2018 CFX Insane – 10 Endload Fast Pitch Bat is also an excellent bat and it is very good for the young players.

Materials:  This bat has a different size which is from 31 to 34 inches in length and 21 to 24 oz. in weight. That means the length to weight ratio is 10. So in accordance with your child’s height and weight, you can make a choice that will suit him. The strongest 2 piece Paraflex Composite system is used to craft this bat. This material helps you to get an amazing strike with a long-term performance and with no string.

Barrel and handle:  DeMarini 2018 CFX Insane – 10 Endload Fast Pitch Bat has a comparatively 22% stronger composite material that is designed to increase a perfect weight distribution with a huge flex and crazy pop. The barrel is 2 1/4 inches diameter. So this great barrel will help you to have a huge sweet spot. This long sweet spot will help the hitters to have a very good sort. On the other hand, the barrel starts with a 3 fusion End cap that helps to balance the bat.

DeMarini 2018 CFX Insane – 10 Endload Fast Pitch Bat is featured with a 3 fusion handle that reduces vibration. This 3 fusion system are formed to make a complete match that helps to give you an awesome feel. The handle is wrapped with a comfortable and durable grip that ensures your coziness. Again there is a RCK knob at the end of the bat.

Why we will recommend it:  DeMarini 2018 CFX Insane – 10 Endload Fast Pitch Bat is accepted by USSSA, ASA, etc. The bat is also featured with lots of stunning technology and materials. For your 13 years old baseball players this bat will be a very good choice without any doubt.

DeMarini 2019 CF Zen (-8) Senior League 2 3/4 Baseball Bat .

DeMarini is a leading sporting accessories manufacturer of America. DeMarini’s bats are a subject of love for the people who has a link with the game, Baseball. Most of the bats of this company match with the youth players. DeMarini CF Zen series bats are also very good for the young Baseball batters. CF Zen’s 2019 Senior League 2 3 /4 Baseball Bat is also a 13u baseball bat.

Scheme: Like the other CF Zen series bats, senior league 2 3/4 2019 bat differs in sizes from 29 to 32 inches in length with 21 to 24 oz. in weight. So the length to weight ratio is 8 that refers to a standard one. Furthermore, this is accepted by USSSA 1.5 bpf. Though some users raise questions about its durability, the other users greatly praise it.

Barrel and handle:  The barrel of this bat is featured with Paraflex composite materials that is used to secure consistency. So this strong barrel will let all types of batters get a stunning performance. This barrel is 2 3/4 inches diameter and so the sweet spot is enough long to provide a perfect hit. So it is easy to balance and control the movement of this bat for a good strike.

The barrel is adjusted to a 3-fusion end cap on its top that ensures a good balance. The handle is also featured with the 3-fusion technology. At the end of the handle there is a knob to protect the stability of the bat and the knob of this bat is made with X-Lite technology. So the hitters will get amazing flex with no dead spot and vibration.

Why we will recommend it:  Though this bat is a bit costly, it is durable and good to use type one. Furthermore its price seems to be okay if you consider its quality and features. For its great consistency, anti-vibration technology with no dead spot along with its mild weight, massive sweet spot and huge pop, this bat should be a great choice if you are looking for a kid pitch baseball bat.

Louisville Slugger 2018 Select 718 (-10) 2 5 /8″ USA Baseball Bat .

Louisville is one of America’s major sporting accessories manufacturer. Louisville’s baseball bats are very familiar in the baseball ground not just in America but baseball grounds throughout the world. Louisville Slugger’s Select and Omaha series bats are the bestselling products of this company. Louisville Slugger 2018 Select 718 (-10) 2 5/8″ USA Baseball Bat is another bestselling bat of this year.

Materials:  This bat is crafted with the Hybrid construction – ST 7U1+ Alloy aluminum. The size of the bat differs from 29 to 32 inches in length and 19 to 22 oz. in weight. So the length to weight ratio is 10. Different stunning technologies are used to give it more perfection. Furthermore, this bat quite durable and powerful that will suit your beloved young player perfectly.

Handle and barrel:  A 2 5/8 inches barrel diameter is used to refurbish this bat. So without any doubt, you will get a huge sweet spot to make a perfect hit. The barrel is again made with hybrid construction and strongest aluminum alloy. Again this barrel starts with a Lightweight Speed Ballistic (SBC) end cap that enhances balanced swing speed. As a metal bat, this one will ensure the durability of it.

The barrel is attached with a 100% handle that ensures maximum durability and lots of pop. TRU3 technology is used to reduce vibration as well as to produce smooth feelings. A synthetic grip wraps the handle to assure your comfort. At the end of the handle, there is a knob that will protect the connection between your hands and the bat.

Why we will recommend it:  Louisville Slugger 2018 Select 718 (-10) 2 5 /8 Baseball Bat is approved by the most renowned organizations like Little League, Dixie Youth AABC etc. That bat is great to look at as it offers a standard color combination of red, white, black, blue and gray. I believe that your smart little hitter will love it to have.

Conclusion 

Baseball Bat is can seem to be a simple thing to one but in reality it is pretty hard to grab the right bat for the right player. If you are looking for the correct bat for your 13 year old boy or girl, I think you can be helped by this list of 10 best Baseball bats for that particular age. Furthermore, you have to make a wise decision from this 10 in accordance with your child’s choice, size, and weight.

After the mentioned 10 bats, if you ask for a least suggestion, we will refer Louisville Slugger 2018 Select 718 (-10) 2 5 /8″ USA Baseball Bat from Louisville and DeMarini 2018 CFX – 11 FastPitch Bat and DeMarini 2018 CFX Insane – 10 Endload Fast Pitch Bat from DeMarini is the most positive reviewed bats with least complain as well as rich in functions.

Besides following our suggestion, you can ask for advice from some baseball experts and players. You can also take your child to a renowned shop to make a very good choice. Here we just hope your very good luck to make your child happy with the right bat that suits him or her best.

You can also take a look at these article: Best baseball bats for 12 year old Best baseball bats for 10 year old Best baseball bats for 9 year old 25 Best baseball bats

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DeMarini Voodoo One Series: Power Within a Lightweight Bat

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Baseball Bat Rules

By Bat Digest

The fact that I’m writing an article on bat rules tells us just how nuanced baseball is.

With fall ball in full swing, many of you are adjusting to new bat rules or multiple sets of bat rules. Some kids are using USA bats for the first time. Others are using USA and 1.15s. Some are utilizing those plus BBCOR. Some of you are using wood composite. Some of you—

Wait. Wood composite is USA bat compliant? No. Well, maybe in BBCOR. More on that later.

Let’s look at some popular bat rules and the questions they create.

The USA Bat Standard (You Say, Money Grab, I Say Tomato)

I remember stumbling upon the USA Bat press release in August 2015 . It didn’t get much traction until 2017 by me. I remember, as January 2018 approached, panic set in as parents scurried for holiday bats. Backorders. Big barrel bats? What are these things? Disappointed kids. Bat drag. In a state where the majority of kids swung 2 ¼” bats, this was a significant change.

We were all told that the bat standard change was to maintain the “integrity” of the game . But, that term was never defined anywhere. We were also told that baseball is one of the safest sports and that the bat change had nothing to do with that. To this day, “integrity” has never been defined, but reasonable minds can conclude that batted ball exit speeds were getting out of hand. Also, when millions of kids need new bats, somebody is winning. (Hint: not the consumer).

In case you see it, a wood bat stamped with a USA Bat sticker is just fancy marketing. Tip of the cap to that one manufacturer who got a wood bat “USA approved.” Well done.

A random non sequitur. High school catchers must use a newly certified chest protector in 2020 due to cardiac concerns, and bats that are primarily white are banned from NCAA play to promote better reaction times for fielders. Compression testing in college is soon to be adopted for the CWS . Safety is not a concern for young kids, since baseball-only needs to address it at the high school and collegiate levels at this point. That makes total sense now.

The first part of the USA Bat rule is simple. If the league or tourney requires you to use a USA bat, you are bound by one of the following:

• A USA Baseball stamped bat; or
• A solid, one-piece wood bat. No wood composite.

No bamboo, either. Bamboo is a grass, not a wood. No wood barrel/composite handles. This is the one time where wood means solid one-piece wood. To date, no one makes a two-piece wood bat with a USA stamp, even though the rule mentions it.

Shortly after the USA standard took effect, Little League, Pony, and specific other national organizations petitioned for the use of BBCOR for 50/70 “intermediate” play. That rule was passed in February 2018 but was not nearly as publicized. According to the USABat website , the difference in performance between a USA bat and BBCOR is said to be .005 BPF (though I had seen it published earlier being .03 higher for USA). Quite nominal either way, but since the intent was to make a more uniform standard like wood, it comes as no surprise that USA and BBCOR are close. Check your organization’s rules to be safe.

When I see a rule, I can’t help but think of scenarios that the law didn’t consider. It’s just how my brain is wired. As for when “wood means wood,” can one use a wood composite BBCOR for a USA Bat sanctioned tournament that allows BBCOR, or does the use of composite render the bat illegal under the “solid one-piece wood bat” standard? Ask your tournament director, but the BBCOR stamp should make it legal if BBCOR is allowed. So there is one situation where wood composite might be backdoored under a USA Bat standard – if you are the 1% that feels a need to swing a wood BBCOR.

In general, there is no drop limitation for the use of USA bats. However, pay attention at the 13U level , when leagues might mandate differing rules for fall and spring (unlimited USA drop in fall 13U and BBCOR v -5 USA mandatory and BBCOR in spring 13U). By 14U, most leagues shift to BBCOR for USA play.

Perfect Game Bat Rules (Not Entirely Perfect)

Perfect Game does provide its bat rules for each tournament . While that is helpful, I have seen enough online chats questioning their interpretation.

Let’s look at a 13U BCS rule:

• 13U: Metal bat. All bats must have a branding, label, or stamp proving BPF
• 1.15 or BBCOR on it. There is a length to weight ratio maximum of -5 (5 ounces). Wood bats are also allowed.

Hold it, are they saying they can only use metal bats?

Not in my experience. Unless Makos are made of metal, and Zens have an alloy relative we never saw before, all bats seem to be allowed. I have never seen an all “metal” bat rule enforced, even though that is what the rule says.

Does wood mean one-piece wood? I assume so. It’s not clear. Maybe you can use a wood composite.

Does that mean you can use a lighter bat, but that -5 is the heaviest/maximum weight, or does that mean you can only use a -5 or BBCOR?

The fact that I’m asking that question should tell you how bat rules are collectively, less than clear. I’ve seen this exact question recently posted on a bat forum. (Before writing this article, PG did clarify to me that the only drop to be used for 13U BCS is -5 or BBCOR)

When we look at the 2020 USSSA rule later, the term “maximum” is also present.

BBCOR is BBCOR. Wood is wood. Or is it? Perfect Game allows select wood composite bats for older tournaments, such as at the WWBA.

So, wood composite is legal when you get older, BUT ONLY if you use the select brands listed on their site. (Please refer to the opening quote from Mallrats above)

USSSA 1.15 Bat Rules (Not Going Anywhere Soon)

1.15s or UTRIPs are the pre-USA bats every kid loved to swing before “integrity” got in the way. (Picture Grandpa Simpson waving his fist at the sky right now)

In response to the USA Bat standard, USSSA sent out a 2016 press release where it defended the safety of the sport, as well as the competitive balance that 1.15 bats have maintained based on “historical data.” In short, USSSA isn’t changing its standard anytime soon. To further illustrate, when the 2018 Demarini decertification and subsequent re-certification occurred , USSSA posted on its website that it would go as far as to indemnify facilities who opted to allow those bats. That is a whole other ball of wax to discuss, but USSSA 1.15 bats will be rolled out each year for the foreseeable future.

I can’t comment if a competitive balance has been maintained with 1.15 bats as USSSA so states, but if you see an 80 lb. kid hit a 300’ HR; I guess that’s normal.

USSSA has an entire page devoted to bat rules and its press releases , which is the most detailed of any organization online. Suffice it say, if a bat change is made, USSSA knows about it and is all over it. (Like they have ESP) So, if a bat has the newer USSSA 1.15 stamp on it, the bat is “legal” for USSSA play, absent a specific drop limitation by age or if it listed as decertified.

(Does anyone even remember that an Easton USA Bat was decertified ?)

In my opinion, there are two issues with the continued use of 1.15s in non-USSSA sanctioned events.

First, many non-USSSA affiliated tournaments say “any bat with a 1.15 marking on it” or something similar. Let’s not kid ourselves. If that is the only limitation, there is someone who will seek out the craziest bat with a 1.15 hand-painted on to meet the standard, even if it’s banned in 3 countries. So the fact that bats may have been decertified or banned might never be prohibited by that particular local tournament. As a parent, that concerns me. Usually, what happens is that one facility looks at another facility’s rules and merely copies them. I guess imitation is the best form of flattery (and in this instance, risk management).

When the 2017 Demarini ban took place , no facilities by me knew about it for well over a month, and play continued. As some areas don’t list USSSA banned bats from the beginning of when the USSSA decertification process first started, this creates a loophole for USSSA banned bats to be used at non-USSSA sanctioned locations. That loophole should be uniformly closed in the interest of safety—I mean “integrity.”

New 13U/14U Rule for USSSA

There is a new 2020 rule in connection with the use of bats at the 13U and 14U USSSA Division:

Effective January 1, 2020 all 13U events and all Teams in 13U events must use a maximum of drop 8 (-8) bat with the official USSSA 1.15 BPF mark permanently stamped. All 14u events and all Teams in 14u events must use a maximum of drop 5 (-5) bat with the official USSSA 1.15 BPF mark permanently stamped.

When I first read the rule, it reminded me of the Perfect Game rule. Kids can use a -8 at 13U if they want. Ok. The way it reads with no reference to what other bats could be used is a bit confusing, in my opinion. When I looked back, it appeared to be saying that a 13U player can only use a -8. Why the word “must?” Why not mention that heavier bats like -5s and BBCOR are allowed to clarify it all?

I have read online that some organizations are refusing to adopt this rule, opting to police themselves. Know before you go is all I can say if you play UTRIP.

I will not go down the rabbit hole and discuss what kids should be swinging at what age and how specific rules could impact future development. For now, that is better left for the excellent banter I see on various online bat forums. It’s quite entertaining. Grab some popcorn.

Cooperstown All Star Village

Recently, Cooperstown ASV banned all -8 2 58” 2017 Zen and the -10 2 ¾” 2017 Zen, both tooled and retooled. That rule was not in place earlier last summer from what I can tell.

That darn “integrity” is getting in the way again.

Be aware that the 2018 Easton Ghost 30 ” USA Bat is banned at ASV.

There was some confusion, at least on our end, about the differing USSSA Stamp and its requirement for Cooperstown Village. In any case, the president of the organization reached out to us telling we had it wrong.

The answer: there is NO requirement to have a bat with a new USSSA stamp. Sorry for any confusion this may have created.

Cooperstown Dream’s Park (The Wild West of the East)

For any of you who plan to attend there, there are primarily 2 Cooperstown facilities: All-Star Village (ASV) & Dreams Park . If there are others, I don’t know anything about them.

You will see kids hit HRs at an alarming pace. As of today, Cooperstown Dreams Park has zero restrictions on bats other than “no wood bats.” Odd.

For those of you looking to attend one of these two locations next year, know where you are going before you drop way more than you should for a “Cooperstown” bat. I also recommend one of you carry a small scale in your backpack, but that is the topic of an entirely different article .

See our guide on what to know before you go to Cooperstown All Star Village .

How to Best Navigate These Rules

The bottom line is that you have to ask questions, and you need to think ahead of where your kid is or might be playing at the time you purchase bats. It is fairly common to see a bat bag sporting the USA, a USSSA, and a wood bat these days. #BatCompaniesSmiling

Don’t remove the wrapper until you know the bat is legal for your games, and if you might only need that bat for a weekend or two, buy used or try to borrow a bat from a friend.

A realistic possibility is that your kid plays a season using two or more bat rules, so you need to stay on your toes and check the rules before each weekend.

Given how long some of these bat rules have been in place, and given that some leagues add on to the same page and copy and paste from others, it might be a good time for everyone to clarify the rules and rewrite them in much a cleaner fashion. Just state what bats can be used and what can’t. Remove terms and phrases that are outdated, confusing, or are not ever enforced. I know, wishful thinking.

In closing, I must quote my son when I first told him about the USA Bat Standard.

“Dad, couldn’t they just change the balls and keep the bats?”

For the win.

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Erick Quesada Reflects on Journey with 12U National Team, USA Baseball

Last year, USA Baseball’s 2023 12U National Team rolled through the competition at both the VII World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) U-12 Baseball World Cup and the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier to claim two gold medal finishes. Assistant coach Erick Quesada was a crucial piece of the puzzle on the gold medal campaigns and will return to the dugout with the national team again in 2024.

Getting to coach on a gold medal squad isn’t something that one can jump into right away, as it takes someone who has an immense amount of passion and dedication for the sport to be primed for a position of this nature. Quesada has a proven track record as he has served USA Baseball in a number of roles prior to becoming a national team coach.

“I started at USA Baseball about nine years ago as a scorekeeper in Arizona, and progressively worked my way up. I worked as a tower supervisor, and then earned my way onto the Task Force. And then this past year, I was on the national team for 12U, so my journey has been an unbelievable experience with USA Baseball to say the least,” stated Quesada.

One of his responsibilities as an assistant coach on the national team is to coach at Training Camp prior to the tournaments that the squad will compete in. Quesada and the rest of the coaching staff will have to cut down on the Training Camp roster to finalize the national team roster.

“Right now we’re just trying to find the best piece that will fit us moving forward to get a gold medal. It's really tough, because we have 36 kids who are extremely talented, and it's a very long, drawn out process for the right reasons. We want to make sure we give everyone an opportunity to showcase their best talents and make sure we're putting the best team together possible to go compete for a gold medal.”

When cutting down the roster size, Quesada has a few keys he looks for when evaluating players. He wants players to play the game with exceptional sportsmanship while also having a strong mindset.

“We like to use the phrase ‘we want to find good players, but also better people’. Guys who do the little things the right way and that are going to compete and show emotion in the right manner. We want guys who go about playing the game of baseball that we all love and do it the way it should be played. There can be a lot of misconceptions about the razzle dazzle, but at the end of the day we want hard-nosed players who will go out and compete and do it the U-S-A way.”

Quesada relishes his opportunity to be with the national team and notes that his time spent with USA Baseball has been something that he will take with him forever.

“Oh, it's the best feeling in the world. Every time I talk about my USA experience I always get chills, especially having the honor of standing up on the podium and receiving a gold medal last year. It's the greatest honor and one of the best highlights of my life. I'm super thankful for USA Baseball and what it's done for my life and my career. I can't say enough about USA baseball.”

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