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A Guide – How to Choose a Youth Baseball Bat based on Player’s Age or Level of Play

It should be simple, right?  A baseball bat and some batting gloves is everything your child needs for offensive production in baseball.

However, it can be tricky to choose the best baseball bat.

This quick-start guide will provide parents and children all the necessary information needed to select the right metal bat for a certain age or a particular level of play. Having a perfectly-tailored bat can maximize the performance of the player and significantly build his confidence.

Then, after you know the criteria for the bat you are looking for (certification, weight, length, drop weight, and composition material), check out the pros and cons of the best baseball bats for 2017 .

NOTE:   Let’s be honest, what do professional baseball players (who use wood bats obviously) know about the latest metal bats?  Normally, every post on this website is written by a professional baseball player, but we had to make an exception for this topic.  Please note, this post was donated to PBI by David Morgan at ThePlanetOfBaseball.com

Regulations

Two things to know…

• In the world of baseball, an “adult” is considered someone who is at least 13 years of age.
• You should also know that BBCOR certification is the current standard used when making adult (13 years and older) baseball bats.  So, if you want a bat eligible for leagues that follow NFHS and NCAA rules, MAKE SURE it is BBCOR certified.

Youth baseball organizations (Little League, PONY, USSSA) also insist on this certification in their senior divisions, which can include players that are 11-14 years old.

What is BBCOR?

If you really want to know…  BBCOR stands for “batted ball coefficient of resolution,” something that is calculated based on the trampoline effect of the bat. This standard was implemented to regulate the level of energy lost when the bat makes contact with the baseball. NFHS and NCAA set 0.50 as the top value that a bat can achieve.

Aside from that, BBCOR certification means that a bat needs to have

• a barrel diameter that does not exceed 2 5/8 inches,
• a length no greater than 36 inches, and
• length to weight ratio no bigger than -3.

Composite bats that were banned can now be used if they have a BBCOR certification.

You can find the list of all certified bats here.

How to Choose the Right Size?

There are several factors to consider when choosing the best baseball bat:

• Weight and drop weight
• Barrel size

1.  Length of the Bat

You can use this chart of recommended bat length depending on player’s age:

Longer bats enable players to have a bigger reach, but they are also heavier, which can affect swinging technique. Obviously, you have to consider both length and weight to find the perfect bat for your player.

2.  Weight of the Bat

There is a belief that bigger players need to use a heavier bat to achieve maximum power, while smaller players should use a lighter bat to maximize the speed.   That may be the starting place of your search for the best youth baseball bat, but it’s not necessarily the rule.

Heavier bats can be tricky to control, and the player can lose his motivation if hitting too many foul balls.

However, your child won’t get maximum performance from a bat that is too light, as it will decrease potential acceleration and power.

To really be sure, you can use this bat sensor  see which bat weight results in the highest exit velocity (while still keeping good hitting mechanics).

The trick is to find the ideal drop weight of your player’s bat.

What does drop weight of a baseball bat mean?

The drop weight is the difference between the length (measured in inches) and the weight (measured in ounces) of the bat.

Which drop weight should my child use?

The drop weight changes as the player becomes better / stronger / older.

• Youth baseball bats  – If you are a new player that makes his first baseball steps, you should start with a bat that has a -10 or -12 drop weight. These are drop weights recommended for children starting to play baseball.
• High School – BBCOR regulations restrict high school and college baseball players to using bats with the drop weight no greater than -3.

As you can see, it might be easy to find the best batting gloves, but choosing an appropriate bat is a time-consuming process.

The player will have to try several (if not a lot of) bats until he finds the most suitable weight.

The weight test

There is a good exercise for determining if the bat is too heavy for the batter. Have your player hold the bat out in front of him with one hand for 15-20 seconds.

The bat should be held with one hand and just above the handle. If he can make it for 20 seconds without his bat dropping or the arm shaking, there is a good chance you’ve found the best baseball bat for that player. On the other hand, if the bat drops or the arm shakes, you should try a lighter bat.

3.  Barrel Size

Players under the age of 12 are advised to use a 2 1/4” barrel. That is the standard size for Youth and Little League baseball. Regulations restrict high school and college batters to use a maximum barrel diameter of 2 5/8”.

Having in mind both barrel size and drop weight, the experts from Source for Sports came up with this chart:

Please note that this is a chart with the recommended sizes. They can differ from player to player, but they all have to comply with the regulations.

Types of Bats to Choose From

There are four basic types of metal bats based on the material used in their crafting:

· Alloy bats · Composite bats · Half and half bats · Hybrid bats

You can also choose from one piece bats and two piece bats. The latter ones provide a little more flex in the handle, which can help the speed, while one piece bat lovers claim that they have a better trampoline effect.

Composite bats  (generally the most expensive) are made of a composite of fiberglass-like material. Their main feature is that they get better with use. The break in period is crucial for them, so it is recommended to hit 200 to 300 real baseball all around the barrel to get the best performance from a composite bat. This type had been banned a long time ago, but can now be used as long as the bat has a BBCOR certification.

Alloy bats  (generally the least expensive… there are always exceptions) are completely made from metal, except for the end cap. In most cases, this metal is aluminum. The reason for that is that aluminum is light and durable, making this the best youth baseball bat available. Aluminum bats allow younger players to learn the technique of a proper swing. They also provide greater speed, compensating for the lack of accuracy and strength in some younger players.

Half and half bats offer a composite handle, while the barrel is made of aluminum, alloy or hybrid material.

Hybrid bats are comprised of several mixed materials, such as alloy or carbon. The main idea of these bats is to combine strengths of aluminum and composite bats while eliminating their drawbacks.

How Much Does Price Matter for a Metal Youth Baseball Bat?

Whether you are buying batting gloves, baseball sunglasses , catcher gear or any other product that comes to mind, the price is something you have to take into consideration.  Fortunately, for baseball bats, it’s safe to say that price isn’t the deciding factor.

It’s true, you tend to get what you paid for, and more expensive alloys should provide better performance.

However, the vital thing to consider is your player. For example, aluminum bats are perfect for younger players that are only starting their baseball career, even though they are cheaper than composite bats.

Author Bio:

My name is David, I am an editor/co-founder of www.theplanetofbaseball.com. Being a software engineer by day and a baseball blogger by night, I also participated in the training activities of a youth baseball team at my hometown. I have passion for baseball, it pertains to my life from childhood until now and I love to share what is related to that passion with others. I believe in the support of other baseball bloggers like me to spread the passion.

About Author

Professional baseball players & coaches donate their knowledge. Pro Baseball Insider has 100's of pages of free baseball instruction, exclusively from the pros. To find out who has contributed to this website, check out our Pro Contributors page

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Best Youth Baseball Bats for 2023

I have noticed that parents are often looking for the best youth bat especially in little league. 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!

• Price; this was a big factor for me
• Type of Brands
• Aluminum or composite materials accounting for weather
• Small or Huge sweet spot based on Barrel design
• One piece bat or two piece bat
• Bat length and drop weight
• Weight distributed for end loaded or balanced swing and more.

So I began my own research to quickly learn everything I could about youth bats on the market. I hope you find the information helpful!

If you are looking for 14U or High School BBCOR then read “The Ultimate List of BBCOR Bats” .

If you are looking for help for your swing check out the Best Swing Trainers and Portable Baseball Pitching Machine article!

Best Youth Baseball Bats Quick Reference

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.

Best Youth Baseball Bats Start With the Right Barrel

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Click below to review the top youth bats :, composite bats – under 14u.

Some of the best youth baseball bats made from composite materials in the barrel and handle. A composite bat is typically   lighter and deliver a tremendous power due to the carbon fiber polymer used in the bat construction. This results in a larger sweet spot for a sweeter explosion of the ball off the bat. 

The categories below are an overview at selecting the right youth composite baseball bat for your son. Depending on your little league, bat requirements differ in regards to the bat drop weight requirements.

Check your league regulations before purchasing your bat.

Choose Your League

2022 usssa composite bats.

Marucci – Hot Hot Hot Bat !!

Perfect for Contact and Power Hitters with a Mid Balanced Barrel

When it comes to selecting your next youth baseball bat you should consider a variety of factors like weight and height. Most importantly, you should be thinking about the bat size 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 heavier 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 with the right bat size for his height and weight. 

So, I wouldn’t recommend purchasing a $400+ plus bat, especially for little league, if it does not compliment your son’s hitting style. Additionally, purchasing a bat size 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 youth bats and 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 youth bats reviews.

Understanding the Difference Between the Types of Bat Barrels

While there are many popular youth 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 bat vs an aluminum vs a wood bats. The material and the bat barrel diameter could have an immediate impact on the sweet spot and how far your son can hit the ball. So let’s start with the basics based on some of the best youth baseball bat reviews for your son as he may be getting started in little league.

What are the Advantages of A Composite Bat?

Some of the best youth baseball bats are made from composite material. Composite bats 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 composite material in a youth bat. Those that are made 100% of this material are known as composite bats. Those bats use part of the carbon fiber polymer are known as Hybrid or Composite Hybrid bats. 

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

What are the Advantages of the Composite Hybrid Bat?

Some of youth bats are actually hybrid. The Hybrid Bat enjoys the benefits from both pure composites and alloy bats. They are known as a two-piece bat where the handle is alloy and the barrel is composite. Thus, the youth baseball hitter enjoys the larger sweet spot and lighter handle weight. 

Overall, the composite bat is a dominate bat on the field that a young hitter wants in their bag. The ability to enjoy 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 youth baseball bats options. 

What are the Advantages of An Alloy or Aluminum Bat?

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

Advantages: 

• Less expensive than most composite or hybrid 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 

The aluminum or alloy bat 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 bats. Read over some of the youth bats reviews to see if what other parents may have to say. 

What You Should Consider Buying A Wood Bat?

What can I say about the wood bat. It has been around since the game started. They are some of the best bats 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 would say the best bat is a wood as they are 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 bats. 

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

Best Youth Bat Barrel Types

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 a contact hitter. 

• Contact Hitter – 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 Bat.
• Power Hitter – When they connect, watch out! Bomb droppers. Not everyone can be a power hitter. Expect a power hitter in the four hole to move the runners. 

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

Contact Hitters Should Use Balanced Barrels

Some of the best youth baseball bat of are balanced. If your son loves hitting the gaps, typically hits singles and doubles they should consider a balanced barrel 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 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 bat control. A great option when looking at all of the best youth baseball bats on the market.

Power Hitters Should Use An End Loaded Barrel

Some of the best youth baseball bats of 2022 are made for power. The power hitter love the end loaded barrel bat. Not everyone can properly swing this type of barrel 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 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 barrel bat for their best youth baseball bats. 

What is the Bat Barrel Diameter and Why Does It Matter?

The barrel diameter is the width of the bat barrel. It ranges in size from 2 1/4 inches to 2 5/8 inches for youth bats. The larger the barrel diameter, the bigger the sweet spot on the bat barrel. 

Best Youth Baseball Bats by Length/Drop

As we start to understand how to select the best youth baseball bats your son needs this section 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 for the right youth 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. 

Understanding the Youth Bat Length

There are three additional ways to understand length and if the length of the best youth baseball bats is correct. 

• Measure from the knob of the 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.

Understanding the Youth Bat Drop

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 youth all 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 youth baseball bat is 30 with a drop 10 then (30 – 10 = 20 ounces).

Another typical scenario is your son hits his growth spurt and now swings a drop 12 today. It is time to move up from a 29″ to 30″ bat length. This adds one ounce alone.

However, because of his age and depending on which league he typically plays in, it may be mandatory he starts to swing a drop 10 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 bat before using it on the field.

This is very important as you select your looking at all of the best youth baseball bats.

What is the best bat for 10u baseball?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on a number of factors, including the child’s size, strength, hitting style and little league bat rules. However, there are a few general guidelines that can help you choose the right youth bat for your child.

First, consider the child’s weight and height. A youth bat that has a barrel design that is too long or too heavy can be difficult for a child to swing, and may actually hinder their performance. Conversely, a bat that is too short or too light may not provide enough power.

Next, take into account the child’s hitting style. A child who is a power hitter will likely benefit from a heavier bat, while a contact hitter may want to look for a bat with a bigger sweet spot, a thinner barrel for a faster swing on every swing!

Some good youth bats you may want to consider:

• DeMarini CF drop 10
• Easton ADV drop 10
• Marucci Cat Series drop 10 
• Louisville Slugger Solo drop 10 or drop 12

Although there are many more options I would check your little league rules to make sure you look at the best bats available in your local area. 

Clarification on “Best Youth Baseball Bats”

The phrase “the best youth baseball bat” in this article will vary as you conduct your own research on various sites. I will be focusing on bats up to the point kids will start high school which typically are for the hitter up to 14 years old.

It is important to call this out is because young players hit their growth spurts at different times. So 10 year old could have greater bat control with a heavier drop 8 bat than his teammates who may swing a drop 10 bat. It all depends on how young players can handle the size and bat weight.

Best Youth Baseball Bats Summary

The good news is that the normal 2023 release of the new and best youth bat 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 best youth baseball bats for him.

My son is 14 years old and I plan on visiting retail stores that will allow him to swing the best youth baseball bats 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 he picks up. 

Best of luck this next little league season and hope this article helped you decipher some of best youth bat reviews you may read. 

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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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Best Youth Baseball Bats of 2023 – 10 USSSA and USA Picks

We’ve taken the hassle out of picking the best little league bat by doing the heavy lifting on your behalf. The section below provides in-depth reviews of the best youth baseball bats of 2022 with some fantastic picks.

For U-trip, our favorite USSSA bat of 2023 is the 2023 Marucci CAT X . Players will enjoy the stiff feel, super-responsive barrel, smooth taper, its pop, and fantastic sound once it’s fully broken in. Once again, Marucci has delivered with the CAT X. The best USA bat of 2023 is the 2023 Drop 10 ADV 360 . Players will love its big barrel, massive sweet spot, great performance right out of the wrapper, and no sting in the hands.

Our 3 Best USSSA Bats

[amazon box=”B0B5NJPT2S,B0BHZRB14R,B0B4BQ8VYR” template=”table”]

Our 3 Best USA Bats

[amazon box=”B0B4BPQNWS,B09YYZG1FN,B096BLLRND” template=”table”]

Best USSSA Youth Bats of 2023

1. 2023 marucci cat x composite.

For 2022, the CAT 9 composite was easily one of the best USSSA youth bats we’ve ever swung. From the looks of things, the CAT X composite is just as good, if not better! We swung the drop 8 and were blown away – 2023’s CAT X (or CAT 10 if you like your Roman numerals) is way more than just a color change.

2023’s CAT X sports a composite barrel that, despite feeling the same as last year, has improved tech to which we attribute the performance boost. This bat also has a stiffer, thinner handle that tapers smoothly into a smaller knob that we love compared to last year’s CAT 9.

At first, your CAT X will likely sound quite bland, and the sweet spot small, but please keep hitting; this bat is absolute gas and will only get hotter. Ours noticeably changed about 20 swings in, and after another 100 swings, the CATX was fully broken in and came into its own, putting out bonkers numbers. Compared to the CAT 9 composite, the CAT X feels lighter, stiffer, and more rigid. Swing weight feels more or less similar to last year’s model, and durability is just as great.

2. 2023 Rawlings Icon Review

After seeing the internet abuzz upon its release, we picked up the Rawlings Icon, and it does live up to all the hype. The Icon is a two-piece, all-composite youth baseball bat with a balanced swing feel.

We tested the drop 10 and loved the sleek golden-black colorway and overall feel in the hands. It has a thin handle that, when coupled with the balanced swing weight, is smooth and swings like a dream. The barrel’s carbon composite and connector piece give this bat great pop while keeping it nice and stiff.

Why we love the Rawlings Icon: This drop 10 model will likely be one of the best USSSA youth baseball bats for 2023 thanks to how good it sounds, its balance (almost as good as the Meta), and its big barrel that makes it easy to find the sweet spot.

It does take a while to fully get going, but at about 50 hits in, this bat is mashing the ball. It didn’t do too well on mishits, probably because it’s a little stiff for a two-piece, and the knob is a tad bulky, which might hurt your hand and make it hard to find a good grip.

3. 2022 DeMarini CF USSSA Baseball Bat

The 2023 CF Mashup is 2022’s CF in a fancier get-up. For 2023, the Mashup has mostly stayed the same, save for cool-looking graphics. The 2022 bat had tons of pop and a massive sweet spot, and the 2023 rendition is no different.

For 2023, the CF Mashup comes as a balanced, two-piece, all-composite bat that will give players tried and true performance and feel in the hands. Sweet spot is huge, barrel control feels great, and the CF Mashup consistently performs incredibly well.

Swing weight is really well balanced and should suit contact hitters who want the ability to generate speed in their swings and lots of control through the zone.

The CF Mashup is available in sizing that ranges from 28, 29, 30, and 31 inches in length and comes in 3 drop weights – a light swinging drop 10, the heavier drop 8, and the even heavier drop 5 for that player that will soon be transitioning to drop 3 bats.

We haven’t had the CF Mashup long enough to test out its durability. Still, going by last year’s durability issues with the 2022 CF, we’re reluctant to have it at the top of our list, especially with competition from the CAT X and the Rawlings Icon. While the jury is still out, we recommend only using this as your gamer for now.

4. 2022 Louisville Slugger Meta USSSA Baseball Bat

The 2nd rendition of the USSSA Meta is our X pick. The 2022 USSSA Louisville Slugger Meta is a balanced two-piece, fully composite bat.

The EKO composite material used on the barrel delivers a light-swinging, big-barreled bat that sounds fantastic on contact with the ball. The composite also enhances barrel length while keeping the bat lightweight and well-balanced. 

The VCX2 connection piece flexes in a way that lets both the barrel and handle move independently of each other, which gives a smooth feel on contact while minimizing sting on mishits. Finally, the end cap maximizes barrel length and keeps the bat light enough to improve swing speed further.

Youth baseball players will enjoy the Meta’s big barrel, fantastic sound, and most importantly, its performance. The drop 8, in particular, will be an excellent choice for a player who wants a moderately light-swinging bat with a massive barrel. The drop 10 will suit contact players aged 7-to-12-years-old. 

That said, we shrill think that the USSSA CF is a better pick over the USSSA Meta USSSA, but the Meta still makes our best youth baseball bat list for its performance overall.

5. 2022 Easton ADV Hype USSSA Baseball Bat

The 2022 ADV Hype is another one of our picks for best youth baseball bat and another two-piece composite that we love. From its construction to how it looks. It replaces the ADV 360 everywhere apart from USA bat.

Thanks to a new composite barrel, connection piece, and handle, performance is superb. Easton claims that the TCT (Thermo Composite Tech) used on the ADV Hype’s barrel is new, but online forums have been awash with claims that the 2022 Hype takes the TCT composite and end cap from the legendary MAKO line of bats.

Drops 8 and 10 will suit contact hitters who like their bat with a big barrel and a light swing. The drop 5 feels end-loaded and is thus best for power hitters transitioning to a heavier drop 3. The sweet spot, once you find it and hit right on it, the barrel jumps. 

Our favorite feature is the soft knob (or Power Boost Knob, as Easton calls it). This soft knob replaces the hard plastic with pliable rubber that feels so much more comfortable in the hands. 

The USSSA 2022 Easton ADV Hype is available in various sizes to suit  every type of player on the team . Lengths range between 27 to 32 inches. Drop 5’s come only in 2 5/8 while the drop 8 is available in 2 3/4. The drop 10, on the other hand, is available as both a 2 3/4 and a 2 5/8.

Best USA Bats of 2023

1. 2023 easton adv 360 usa review.

The Easton ADV 360 comes as a balanced, two-piece, all-composite baseball bat. For 2023, the Easton ADV exists only in USA baseball. The USSSA and BBCOR version of this bat is the ADV Hype.

The Launch composite used on the barrel gives players a big barrel, massive sweet spot, and great performance right out of the wrapper. Once it’s fully broken in, the ADV is a beast.

Its foam-filled two-piece connection piece eliminates vibration and hand sting and gives players a stiffer connection. Coupled with Easton’s “Flow-Tack Grip” (resembles Lizard Skin bat grips), players get additional comfort & tack.

The Power Boost Knob is our favorite feature. Made out of pliable rubber, the knob further cuts down on hand sting while improving comfort and feel in the hands.

The drop 11 will be a great addition for younger batters who aren’t quite ready to swing a drop 10. On the drop 11, however, Easton is using their launch composite material instead of their ultra-light composite to rescue durability at the expense of hot-out-of-the-wrapper performance. We haven’t had this bat long enough to speak on the drop 11’s durability, but it is something to consider, especially at that price tag.

The drop 10s are a nice middle-ground bat that will suit most players and easily the best bat for players between 9 and 11 years of age. Bigger, stronger, more experienced players between 11 and 13 years old will benefit from added weight, so they are better off swinging the drop 8 or drop 5.

The 2023 Easton ADV 360 will be perfect for players that like a big barrel, light swing, and great feeling two-piece composite.

2. Axe Bat Strato 2023 USA Bat Review

If you’re looking for an alloy USA bat, the 2023 Axe Strato will be an amazing pick, especially when you consider its price vis-a-vis how well it performs. 

The 2023 Axe Strato is a one-piece and all-alloy bat that comes in a range of sizes between 27 to 32-inches in length. The alloy barrel makes for a solid, durable  bat that doesn’t need a break-in period, and a composite end cap works to keep swing weight low.

We swung the slightly heavier drop 8, that carries a slight end load compared to the drop 10 and it hits the ball really well, 

All Axe Bats have Axe’s patented handle design, and the Strato is no different.

The 2023 Axe Strato will suit entry-level players, or big hitters that are looking for a stiff, light swinging bat with a huge barrel that they can wring performance out of. 

It hits the ball really well, with lots of pop and a great-sounding ping to boot, making it well deserving as one of the best USA bats of 2023. We didn’t like that it would occasionally sting the hands (despite that being typical for one-piece bats). Vibration can be overlooked by bigger hitters though, and younger pitchers likely won’t swing the bat hard enough for it to be an issue.

3. DeMarini 2022 CF USA (-10) Review

The CF has been one of the best USA bats for several years now. It’s pretty much been the same bat with a different coat of paint – If it ain’t broke, right?

This balanced, drop 10 two-piece, fully composite bat. The two-piece composite construction allows for better weight distribution along the CF’s barrel, thus allowing for a combination of control, speed, and excellent balance.

The CF’s barrel tech gives it a massive sweet spot that’s both consistent and super responsive.

Its connection piece flexes to give players smooth hits while limiting vibration from traveling down into the hands. Finally, the end cap tops it off by blending strong but lightweight materials that better the barrel’s performance without affecting speed.

Contact players who need to generate speed will enjoy this lightweight, smooth swinging bat, and its huge barrel.

4. 2022 Louisville Slugger Solo -11 USA Review

The 2022 Louisville Slugger Solo is a one-piece, all-composite USA bat. We love its big barrel, light swing, and stiff feel – definitely one of the best USA bats for beginners and contact hitters.

The USA version has a balanced swing weight and is only available in a drop 11. Swing weight is light, courtesy of a thinner wall-design single-piece alloy that gives lots of pop. The lightweight feel is further enhanced by the USA Solo’s composite end cap that shaves off weight to improve its lightweight and balanced feel further, giving players more control and generating faster swing speeds.

The drop 11 has earned rave reviews from beginners looking for a bat that swings light but is a performer. The barrel is a decent size, the bat swings light, and the price point won’t burn a hole through your wallet.

5. Easton 2022 MAXUM Ultra Drop 10 USA Baseball Bat

Our fourth pick for best USA bat is the Easton Maxum Ultra. This balanced one-piece, drop 10, fully-composite USA bat has a huge sweet spot, stiff for power transfer to the ball, and feels great for a single piece.

For starters, the XXL Barrel on this bat is massive. Second, the carbon barrel is stiff as a one-piece bat but swings super light. Young players can generate decent bat speed while maintaining control, and the massive sweet spot allows them to make solid contact.

A big barreled, light swinging bat in the USA space is bound to be a popular pick, and the Maxum Ultra is a breath of fresh air in a field that’s replete with two-piece composites options.

Performance is excellent, feel in the hands is great for a one-piece composite, and it has an impressive amount of pop. As is typical with a one-piece, the Maxum does sting the hands, unfortunately – if you can get past that, the 2022 Easton MAXUM Ultra is a worthwhile pick.

How To Pick The Best Youth Baseball Bat – A Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the best youth baseball bat can be daunting. Where do you even begin??

From the different baseball bat brands, lengths, weights, and materials the bats are made from… There’s so much to take in!

The single most important consideration for choosing the best youth baseball bat for you is to pick a bat you’re going to be comfortable using. Here are a few factors that’ll help you reach this decision.

• The league you/your player is in and its regulations
• Age, height, and weight of the player
• Size and weight of the bat – This greatly affects how the player hits & swings, their batting stance and ultimately their swing speed
• The bat’s weight to length ratio (The drop)
• Price of the bat
• The life span of the bat
• Type of material the bat is made of

When looking for the best youth baseball bat, what do you consider more important? Are you looking for value or are you okay spending top dollar?

Baseball bats differ quite a bit in price. Tee-ball bats cost as little as $30. Certain bats can even cost upwards of $250!

League/Association

A youth bat is a huge purchase. Before you even start to do research on the best one, make sure you find out the rules and regulations of the league your child will be playing in.

Different leagues such as the Little League, Pony Ball, Babe Ruth, Cal Ripken, Dixie, Dizzy Dean, USSSA, NFHS all have their own regulations.

It is not unheard of for a parent to fork out for the price of the best youth baseball bat, only to find out that league rules do not allow for the bat to be used.

Weight & Length

The weight of a baseball bat is measured by comparing it to its length – A figure known as the drop-weight. The higher the number, the lighter the bat is.

To measure this, subtract the weight(ounces) of the baseball bat from its length(inches).

Take for instance a 27-inch long bat. If this bat weighs 15 ounces, this bat is then considered to be a “-12” bat.

Baseball leagues have safety rules that require baseball bats to have a drop between -7 and -13.5. The lower the drop, the higher the bat speed.

Taller hitters need longer bats, while heavier bats can be used by strong hitters.

The general recommendation, however, is to pick a bat that is easy to use and control. However, pick a bat that has some mass, because this makes it easier to hit the ball with some power behind it.

Bat Sizing Chart

To fight the best youth baseball bat for you, follow these 3 easy steps:

• Find your weight range(in pounds) on the left side of the chart
• Find your height range(in pounds) on the top of the chart
• Trace down from your height & weight range until the point they meet in the middle. That is your ideal bat size.

Please Note: This chart only serves as a guideline. Finding the best youth baseball bat for you ultimately boils down to your personal preference, your strength and weight, and hitting style.

Try out different bats until you find the best one for you!

How To Care For Your Youth Baseball Bat

How to break-in your youth baseball bat.

If you intend on getting yourself an aluminum bat, you do not require to break it in. These bats work perfectly right out of the box.

With Composite Youth Baseball Bats, however, you’ll need around 120 to 200 hits to get the bat to perform at its peak.

Newer models do provide much better performance now right out of the box. When breaking in a composite youth baseball bat , start off at half your hitting power and gradually increase over time as your hit count goes up.

Rotate your bat ever so slightly with every couple of hits to make sure your bat gets broken in evenly.

What Is The Best Temperature For Your Youth Bat?

It is widely believed that  Composite Youth bats are more sensitive to temperature changes than most other bats out there.

While we haven’t found a maximum temperature above which you shouldn’t use your bat, manufacturers have their own suggestions on the minimum temperature at which to use your bat.  However, as a rule of thumb, do not use your youth baseball bat in environments under 55 degrees Fahrenheit .

Fun fact: Composite youth baseball bats have an increased pop in higher temperatures

How To Clean Your Youth Baseball Bat

Scuffs and marks will start to show on the bat after repeated use. Some players prefer to keep the bat dirty as a sign of all the battles the bat has been through. Sometimes, however, you want your bat to look as good as new.

Everyone has their “best trick” to clean their bats e.g soap & water. Most of them aren’t as effective.

One sure-fire way to ensure your bat is always sparkling clean is to use Magic Eraser.

Magic Eraser by Mr. Clean is an inexpensive yet incredibly effective way to clean your bat in no time.

Check out the video below for a demo on how to clean your baseball bat

More Youth Baseball Bat Tips

• Do not overuse your game bat in the batting cage . Save it for game days to avoid excessive wear and tear.
• Do not share your bat. Breaking a bat is a very real possibility, and the less hits there are on the bat, the less likely it is to break.
• Dimpled balls will ruin your bat. Steer clear.
• Your bat should not be used to knock dirt from your cleats. This will damage it.
• When using a wood baseball bat , ensure you swing with the bat’s label facing you. This is meant to safeguard against breaking your wood bat.

When choosing the best youth baseball bat, remember to consider various factors before making your choice.

Factors such as the league you/your player is in, its regulations, the age/height/weight of your youth player, the drop of the bat in question, it’s size & weight, the material the bat is made out of, and lastly, the price of the bat, all influence your final pick.

Make sure you’re comfortable with the size of the youth baseball bat you choose.

Preference is another factor that isn’t given enough importance. For young players just beginning their journey in baseball, this is especially key.

Pay attention to your hitter’s style. Do they prefer to stand closer to the plate? Or do they prefer standing away from it and extending their swing? Do they prefer inside or outside pitches?

These questions will help you answer questions when looking at the taper of the bat. The taper refers to how soon the bat goes into the handle. A sharp taper is preferred by hitters who extend their swing.

Keep in mind that heavier bats give you more power, whereas lighter bats offer you more control and increase your batting speed.

At the end of the day, a one-solution-fits-all does not exist. Try out several bats before making your final choice.

Happy Selecting! 🙂

Tags:  Bats

The Bat Nerd

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September 7, 2023  In " Bats "

One response to “Best Youth Baseball Bats of 2023 – 10 USSSA and USA Picks”

My son is very satisfied with DeMarini. Guaranteeing faster ball speeds with each hit, and he can control the big barrel bat better without it slipping from their hands.

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Travel Baseball Uncovered: A Guide For Parents And Players

Let’s talk about baseball—travel baseball, to be exact.

For many, moving from the Little League to travel baseball feels like catching a curveball. After all, it’s more than just a pace change; it’s about trading Saturday afternoon matches on a grassy field for serious club competitions that come with a higher price tag.

You might be thinking, “Is this the right play for my little slugger?” or “How do I even go about choosing a team?”

Well, here’s our chance at bat. We’ll walk you through everything youth travel baseball has to offer, including answering these questions and more.

Table of Contents

What is Travel Baseball [Explained]

Travel baseball is just what it sounds like. It’s when youth teams have to travel in order to have their games and tournaments. This is usually the next step after traditional recreational or Little League. 

Since the level of competition is much higher, it can help them develop their skills.

But preparation comes at a cost—literally. And all that time on the road can take up your schedule very quickly. But despite all that extra work, they’ll get an exciting adventure out of it. Now, they’ll face off against teams from different cities, states, and sometimes even countries.

The love for Travel Baseball is Growing Fast.

In recent years, travel baseball gained an exponential amount of popularity and saw thousands of teams pop up across the country. 

Before the 90s, it was a relatively niche experience only limited to players nestled in regions like Texas and California.

Nowadays, participation is considered necessary for young players wanting to sharpen their skills and go up against some really tough competition.

Instead of focusing on the local leagues like recreational youth baseball does, travel ball operates under various organizations, hosting hundreds of tournaments each year. 

Some big names include USSSA (United States Specialty Sports Association), AAU (Amateur Athletic Union), Triple Crown Sports , and Perfect Game . 

The ambitious goal for any team is to face off against as many different teams as possible to gain experience and test their skills.

Everyone can create a travel baseball team. It doesn’t matter if you’re a parent, high school teacher, or someone who coaches college kids.

The highlight of the season is the travel baseball tournament. Bringing together talented teams from different parts of the world to compete. 

This lets players show their skills to a bigger audience, including scouts and college coaches. These tournaments are organized by many institutions and happen locally, regionally, or even nationally.

There’s nothing cooler than the USSSA World Series, though. Every year, it’s hosted by the United States Specialty Sports Association. 

You’ll find talent from all over America coming here to fight for that top spot. But another epic tournament is the Triple Crown Summer Nationals, where they hold it at Myrtle Beach 

in South Carolina. It attracts teams from everywhere and is known for great competition and vacation vibes.

A unique little competition is held in Cooperstown, New York, known as the Cooperstown Dreams Park Tournament. 

Cooperstown, known as baseball’s birthplace, offers a unique week-long stay in baseball-style barracks. You can visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

These intense and challenging tournaments bring out some of the most talented players young kids have to offer. It’s also a great way to boost your young player’s confidence in playing on those big stages!

Different Levels Of Travel Teams And Their Requirements

It’s not just one level fit all for travel baseball teams. They’re organized into various levels based on skill, experience, and commitment from players. 

Imagine putting someone who only knows how to throw with moderate force into a contest against someone who does it with full force.

The team you choose for yourself should align with your skill level, how much free time you have, and your developmental needs as a player. Here’s an overview of different levels:

1. Local Travel Teams : For beginners starting their journey through travel baseball. The games they play are mostly local or within a close driving distance. Practices only happen a few times a week, and games during the weekend.

2. Regional Travel Teams : For players with more experience and higher skill levels. They go on trips for games and tournaments that will require overnight stays at places. Commitment level is higher, with practices being more frequent along with a longer season.

3. Showcase Travel Teams : The big leagues of young kid baseball players. These teams are made up of highly skilled people who are very serious about baseball. They have college scouts and recruiters present their games. This includes going to different states for showcase tournaments. 

You’ll need to be extremely committed to even think about trying out for this team, and their practices are rigorous and frequent, lasting all year round!

Benefits of Playing in a Travel Baseball Team 

A lot of benefits come from playing travel baseball. 

The biggest one? It can help players get to their goals. It’s not just about playing a game, especially when you want to make it big. It’s actually an experience that provides lifelong skills that can be applied everywhere else.

Competition in recreational leagues is nothing compared to this. It’s way higher. This allows players to grow new and old skills at a faster rate. 

There’s also an intense training schedule that demands discipline, resilience, and focus. These qualities go beyond just sports.

Participating in high-profile tournaments also gets the attention of other coaches and scouts. Which makes it easier for them to open doors for scholarships and professional contracts.

Traveling away from home just for games might seem like a drag, but it builds responsibility and maturity. It is a demanding journey for sure, but very rewarding.

Did MLB Players Play Travel Baseball?

Definitely! A lot of Major League Baseball (MLB) players used travel baseball as their starting point, too. It gives them all the exposure they need, honing skills at such a young age along with fierce competition.

Take Bryce Harper , for example. He’s one of the biggest names in MLB today. His journey started back when he was a child playing for the Southern Nevada Bulldogs 14U travel team. The opportunity came up where he could go against older players who were more experienced than him. This experience helped shape his professional career.

Albert Pujols also played travel baseball when he was younger on his team called Fort Osage Indians Travel Team before sailing into the Hall of Fame.

Clayton Kershaw ? Yeah, him too! Another name you hear often in MLB didn’t start there either — he played for the Dallas Tigers Travel Team where he developed early on gaining crucial skills and discipline that are instrumental in his success today.

How to Find a Travel Baseball Team in Your Region? 

If you’re a young baseball player who wants to take their skills to the next level, then joining a travel team is a great opportunity. If you are a parent and want to make your child the next MLB star, then travel baseball teams are a great place to start with. 

These teams play across the country and allow players to show their talents against top-tier competition. But how do you find one of these teams? 

Here’s a guide on how you can join a travel baseball team in the USA.

Check your local youth baseball organization.

Your first step should be checking with your local youth baseball organization. Chances are they have travel teams that play in leagues and tournaments outside of the regular season. If they don’t, then it’s likely they know someone who does.

Drop by showcases and camps.

In-person events like showcases and camps are great places to meet coaches and scouts from travel baseball teams. They’re designed specifically so players can showcase their skills and get noticed by recruiters.

The internet holds many answers, including finding a travel baseball team. Websites like USSSA Baseball, Perfect Game USA, and Travel Ball Select list lots of travel baseball teams based on state, age group, and skill level — all at a click away.

Talk to other parents and players.

If you want first-hand experience, then talk to other parents or players who have been through this process before. They can give useful insight into which teams are reputable, well-run, and competitive.

For example, if you live in Texas, then one option could be the Texas Bombers Baseball Club — an organization that has multiple teams at different age levels and is known for developing young talent. You can learn more about them by visiting their website or attending one of their tryouts.

How to Find the Perfect Travel Baseball Team? 

Identify the skill level and commitment of the player.

First thing first, you need to figure out how committed your child is to the sport and their skill level.  If he is naturally gifted athlete then you should help him to follow his dream. 

Research Local and Regional Teams

Begin by looking at teams that are close by. These teams usually have varying levels of skill and serve as great entry points for most players. 

You can check their websites and social media pages to learn more about them such as philosophy, coaches, players, and game schedule.

Attend Local Games and Practices 

Sitting in on local games and practices allows you to get a firsthand look at how they run things. You’ll be able to see their coaching style, how they interact with the players, and the overall team dynamic. With this insight, it’ll be easier to make a decision.

Speak with Coaches and Parents

While observing is good, it isn’t enough. Take some time out of your day or week to speak with coaches. 

This allows you to gain an understanding of their training methods, the expectations they have for your child, and the goals they want them to reach. It’s also good practice to talk to other parents so you can get a general idea of what people think about the team.

Consider Logistics

Logistical factors are important, too, so don’t forget about them. Make sure that the team’s practice location is suitable for you and your family’s schedule since it may be far away from where you currently live or work. 

The game schedule should be looked at as well because there could be conflicts in dates that would keep you from attending games.

Tryouts & Evaluations

Most teams hold tryouts or evaluations for people who are interested in joining. If this is offered, take advantage of it because it gives your child the chance to showcase their skills and for you to see if the team would be a good fit. 

A player’s evaluation is also helpful because it gives you insight into how strong the team itself is.

Travel Baseball Season Preparations 

Preparations before the pre-season.

Before the baseball season starts, you’ll want to make sure that your child is mentally and physically ready for the long days ahead. 

So, let’s start with an off-season workout routine to help build strength and agility. But don’t forget about eating well and getting enough sleep. Plus, practicing regularly can take their fielding, pitching, and hitting skills way up.

During the season

Once the season starts, it’s important to stay fit and perform at your best. You’ll want to communicate with their coach to keep track of your child’s progress as well as any areas they need improvement in. 

Another thing you should do is show up to their games and practices. It helps you stay in tune with how the team is performing and also supports your child. And finally, always keep their lines of communication open, whether it’s about pressure or their anxiety.

Post-Season

After a long season, it’s important to take a break. Reflect on the games you had together. Acknowledge all the good things they did but also focus on areas they can improve in. 

Give them some downtime so they can rest and recover. Even though they’re chilling around, don’t let them become bums — physical activity is still important for them during this time.

Travel Baseball vs. Little League

Both types of baseball have their own unique experience and benefits that come along with it. The choice of which one to put your kid into mostly depends on what they want out of it.

For example, travel baseball is more competitive. It attracts players who are committed to sports no matter what and are willing to travel around just for a game against top talent in various regions. Not only does this provide intense competition but also high-level coaching.

It does require a lot of time, as seasons are much longer than in little leagues with more games and practices.

If you want your child exposed more, then this would be a good option, as you can see from Bryce Harper, Albert Pujols, and Clayton Kershaw.

Now, little league baseball is less demanding. It’s generally more focused on the community and not so much on traveling and time. 

It’s actually a great option for kids who still love the sport but aren’t ready to commit to such a demanding schedule. They focus on learning fundamental skills, enjoying the game, and fostering a sense of community.

You can learn more here: Travel Baseball Vs Little League

The Cost of Playing Travel Baseball

If your kid has a future in baseball, you might want to consider enrolling them in travel baseball. The only problem is that this option is much more expensive than local leagues. 

Local leagues tend to have low costs because they don’t do as much traveling as travel teams have to do. On top of paying for the actual games themselves, there’s also the top-of-the-line coaching and amazing facilities that the team needs to cover. 

You’ll be hit with fees like equipment, uniform, tournament, travel (like gas and airfare), and a team fee.

The team fee alone can include things like league fees, practice facility rentals, and salaries for the coaches. 

And let’s not forget about any extra training or lessons they need in order to take their skills up a notch.

It’s always good to ask the people organizing the league what you’re paying for specifically because then maybe it won’t seem so bad (it probably will still seem bad, though). 

But it really does come down to where you live. 

Depending on that, it could cost you anywhere from $1,500-$3,000 per season. And if you’re on one of those elite teams competing at national tournaments, then I’m sorry, but it’ll probably cost way more.

Find Out How To Choose A Coach

A good coach doesn’t just teach how to play sports but also builds discipline and confidence, along with fostering a love for the game. Here are some tips on picking a coach:

Experience And Certification : A coach should always have some kind of experience coaching youth sports, but having proof that they passed some coaching program can give you peace of mind, knowing they know what they’re doing.

Coaching Style : Every coach is different and will treat their athletes differently, too. Some will be very intense in trying to push their players, while others are more relaxed yet inspiring. Pick what works best with your child’s personality.

Communication Skills : A good coach knows how to explain things in a way that’s easy for their athletes to understand. They should also be great at talking to you and other parents.

Focus On Development : It’s better for your kid to improve their skills rather than just win all the time. Look for coaches that will work with them on that.

Reputation : Finally, look into what other people say about the coach. Not only other players but parents, too. It doesn’t hurt to ask around or even watch them during practice if you can. 

Things to Know About Uniforms and Equipment in Travel Baseball

Uniforms and equipment are a necessary investment in travel baseball. It can be beyond what you expect from Little League. Here’s a quick rundown of what your child might need:

Uniforms : Most travel baseball teams have their own custom jerseys that come with pants, caps, belts, and socks. Some teams may even have home and away uniforms, so check with the manager first.

Gloves/Mitts : Get your child a good quality glove or mitt that suits the position they play. For example, catchers and first basemen have their own special mitts, while outfielders use bigger gloves compared to infielders. Check out the Best Youth Infield Gloves 

Bats : Bat rules can get very specific, depending on the league. Before you buy one, make sure you understand what kind is allowed. Also, consider their height, weight, and hitting strength when selecting the right bat size . 

You can check out my list of Best Youth Baseball Bats

Helmets : No matter how old or young your child is, they need a batting helmet. Some leagues even require faceguards as well. Check out the Best Youth Baseball Helmet

Cleats : Running on grass and dirt requires traction, which is why cleats are used in baseball. However, be aware that some leagues don’t allow metal spikes, so again, you should always check if there are any shoe restrictions.

Protective gear : Depending on the position they’re playing at, your kid may need extra protection such as shin guards for their legs or a chest protector for their torso

What is a good age range for travel baseball?

Travel baseball typically starts around 7 or 8 years old and goes through high school. However, the age that you can join may differ depending on the league or team.

How much does it cost to play travel baseball? 

The price of playing travel baseball could be greatly different depending on things like where you live, what team you’re on, and at what level you play. You’ll have to pay for league fees, uniforms, equipment, and even the costs of traveling and staying in other cities for away games.

How often would we need to practice? 

Usually, travel teams practice more often than recreational ones. It’s common for them to meet several times each week. But it will depend on the time and dedication your child’s coach expects.

How far do they have to go? 

Again, that’ll depend on what league your child signs up for. Some teams only need to go a couple of miles, while others will have to cross city lines.

Can my child also play another sport? 

It all depends on how much time both sports require. Understandably, travel baseball takes up quite a bit of time and energy, so consider if they have enough for both.

Overall Worth of Travel Baseball 

Traveling with a baseball team is no joke. For players and families alike, it’s considered a big commitment that takes up lots of time, money, and energy. 

And while it opens up new opportunities, the best reward for joining one is amazing! The skills learned, and knowledge gained from playing at higher levels is priceless. 

Plus, it builds character, helping to teach important lessons like teamwork, dedication, success handling, and, most importantly, failure handling. And let’s not forget about the friendships built along the way from spending hours with teammates in different places across the country. 

Even though some costs and sacrifices come with this commitment, most families say joining a traveling baseball team was totally worth every bit of it. 

Just remember, the end goal is to love the sport and grow as a person.

Hello everyone. My name is  Jason Butler, and I live in California, America. I was a professional AAA Minor League Baseball player.  I lost my chance of playing MLB for injury issues, but I did not lose my love for baseball. I attended the coaching training program and am now working as a coach in a small school in San Diego. 

I always love to share my experience and knowledge if that can help you. Play baseball, and stay fit. 

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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.

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Best Drop 5 Baseball Bats

Based on our years of data, we rate the best drop 5 bats in USSSA and USA here for 2022 and earlier.

We have hit with every drop 5 baseball bat on the market since 2014 through 2022. In the USSSA bat space, we recommend the 2022 DeMarini CF Zen , although models back to 2017 will do. The price increases as the older versions of the CF become more rare. If all the prices were the same, we love the 2017. However, it isn’t worth the premium the market is asking for that bat. Be happy with a 2020/21/22. (Note: The 2017 version of the CF is not legal in all leagues. Check our illegal bat list here).

Our favorite USA Bat is DeMarini’s The Goods One . This is a single-piece alloy bat with a reasonable price point and enough weight in the barrel to not ring the hands too bad on mishits. But if you can barrel one up, watch out.

After hitting with the vast majority of 2022 Drop 5 bats over several days with several different hitters we updated this list.

Also, 13 Year Old players in USSSA tournaments are required to swing nothing lighter than a drop 8 bat in 2020. That should make the amount of drop 8 and 5 bats increase. Here is the rule change verbatim: “Effective January 1 st  2020, all  13U  events and all teams in 13u events must use a maximum  drop  8 (-8)  bat  with the official  USSSA 1.15 BPF Mark permanently stamped. All 14u events and all teams in the 14u event must use a maximum  drop   5  (- 5 ) bat with the official USSSA 1.15 BPF Mark Permanently stamped. “

Best Drop 5 Baseball Bats Write Ups

What is the right bat size.

Most drop 5 bats only come in nothing shorter than a 30-inch. This makes sense as those who look for a drop 5 are usually bigger and looking to wield a heavier bat.

In terms of choosing the right sized drop 5 bat the most useful data set we have is that on our Bat Size Chart.

We found there are virtually no reports of folks using drop 5 bats before age 11. At age 11 the most common is a 31/26 and only 5% of hitter use that. At 12 hitters use a 31/26 more times than they use a 32/27 and roughly 15% of 12 year olds use a drop 5. 13 year old non BBCOR players third most popular bat is a 32/27.

At the time of this writing we have hit with the vast majority of 2020 drop 5 bats. We don’t think much will change between now and when the season starts. But, if we do happen to run across a new drop 5 bat we will update the results here if it can beat anything out. Otherwise, consider the above the data the most up to date information we have on drop 5 bats.

FAQ on Drop 5 Bats

What’s the best drop 5 bbcor bat.

Nice trick question. BBCOR bats do NOT come in a drop 5. So, there’s no such thing. All BBCOR bats come in a drop 5 and only USSSA or USA bats are drop 5. However, if you want a nice light swinging BBCOR bat then check out our best light swinging BBCOR bat category .

Who Should Use An Endloaded Drop 5?

There are many end-loaded drop 5 bats that swing with a greater MOI (swing weight) than many BBCOR bats. Meaning, an endloaded drop 5 bat with a BPF 1.15 stamp can be a bigger hitter than any number BBCOR bat. As such, those who hit with an endloaded drop 5 are bomb-making hitters that pack a serious punch.

Who Should Use a Balanced Drop 5?

The balanced drop 5 is a conundrum. Indeed, one chooses a drop 5 to get more power because your swing speed has maxed out and the greater weight gives you more power. But, one would use a balanced bat to help increase bat speed and make better contact with the ball. So, a balanced drop 5 creates some logical inconsistencies.

We conclude that those looking for a drop 5 in a balanced model can either:

• not find enough weight in a drop 8, but also think an end-loaded drop 5 is too much to handle, or
• appreciate the feel of a balanced bat, but can wield the power of a drop 5.

Who Chooses An Aluminum Barreled Drop 5?

An aluminum barreled drop 5 would fit a player who wants hot out of the wrapper performance and more feel through contact. As such, there are a decent number of drop 5 baseball bats that have an aluminum barrel. Most of these bats are end loaded. Some, however, are single-piece aluminum bats. Others are hybrids that have a composite handle and an aluminum barrel.

What is the Right Bat Size?

What is a drop 5 bat.

A drop 5 bat is a a baseball bat that has a numeric difference between its weight in ounces and its length in inches of 5. Drops are how bats are categorized. Drop 5 bats generally swing heavy compared to their drop 10 and drop 8 counterparts and are made for stronger youth hitters. A 32-inch drop 5 should weigh around 27 ounces.

Drop 5 Softball Bats?

Fastpitch bats do not come in a drop 5. The heaviest those get are the drop 8s although there are some who dabble in drop 7s. Slowpitch bats are all over the place but rarely come in a drop 5 too, although you can certainly find some.

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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.

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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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Best Baseball Bat for 13 to 14 year old player

Millions of fans watch and play the beautiful game of baseball every day and every week. It is one of the most popular games if not the most popular in the United States. In this article, we review the best baseball bats for 13 / 14 year old player. In order to enjoy this sport, one needs to be with the right tools and equipment so you can perform at that top level. As the season draws nearer, various baseball players around the globe begin the search for that equipment that gets them running the show on the pitch. It is always important to know what baseball equipment to use and in this case what baseball bat to get and how to choose the perfect one also.

Content Inside

Best Baseball Bats for 13 to 14 Year Olds

No matter how experienced one might seem to be in picking the best product in the market, we all must have also fallen victim of making the wrong choice at one point or the other. There are numerous baseball bats from numerous brands flooding the market daily. It is always best to be well informed and know what best suits you before making any purchase. Here is a list of the best 10 baseball bats which are suitable for 13 and 14 year old player.

#01:   Louisville Slugger Xeno bat for 13 to 14 year old player

For one looking to continue your kid’s career with quality equipment, the Louisville Slugger Fastpitch Xeno is just about the perfect tool. It is ranked as one of the best baseball bats year after year because of it tremendous and exquisite quality and features it also best baseball bat for 13 / 14 year old player. This piece is purely a composite bat which has a barrel with the usual 2 ¼ diameter. Its balanced swing weight makes it an ideal choice for both power hitters and contact hitters. The Xeno comes available in various drop weights ranging from -8, -9, -10, and -11. It comes with an improved swing and a massive sweet spot. This is due to its unique lightweight X-Cap design which helps reduced unnecessary and unwanted weight at the barrel end. This X-Cap design also helps in the maximizing of the barrel length as well. It has a patented S1ID barrel that provides lots of sweet pops as well as a great and excellent performance. The Slugger Fastpitch Xeno from Louisville can be regarded as a member of the supreme class as far as baseball bats are concerned.

Special Features of the Fastpitch Xeno:

The Louisville Slugger Fastpitch Xeno comes with exceptional features and that it why it can be trusted to give you a beast-like performance and keep you always placed top. The Xeno has a stiff IST technology which helps in the reduction of sting to the hand and helps with better energy transfer when taking a swing. It has a lightweight X-cap design for speed improvement and an S1ID barrel for enhanced durability and nice pop sounds.

Materials and Size:

This bat is a 100 percent composite bat meaning there is no mixing of different construction materials like the typical hybrid bats. This 2 piece construction weight about 1 pound and a drop weight of -8 to -11 depending on which you decide to choose.

Barrel and Handle:

The barrel of the Slugger FastPitch Xeno is solid and comes with the patented S1ID. This feature helps it with a better and a more excellent performance and a lot of pops. The handle contains the IST technology which helps reduce sting to the hand and improves the transfer of energy on to the barrel. The handle also helps with the maximizing of barrel length and speed enhancement due to its lightweight X-Cap design.

• Has a lightweight swing
• The bat is properly balanced
• Provides as low as possible sting if not zero sting to the hand
• The barrel gives an amazing pop
• The bat has a massive sweet spot
• The ball bounces of the bat
• Comes in different drop variations
• Bat is association approved
• 7/8″ standard handle
• The price is high but compared to its features and quality is a bargain
• The paint easily chips off.

Why we recommend the Louisville Slugger Fastpitch Xeno?

There are several baseball bats in the market but there is only one Louisville Slugger Fastpitch Xeno. If you want an enhanced performance for your kid and some confidence boost, then he definitely needs this piece to help him run the show on the pitch.

#02:   Marucci MCBC7 Cat7 BBCOR Baseball Bat

This is a no  regular baseball bat and definitely not produced by a regular manufacturing sporting equipment company. The Marucci MCBC7 Cat6 BBCOR Baseball Bat is nowhere to be placed with this Cat7 version. It comes with tremendous design and amazing features ready to blow minds away. One of the things that make the difference with this piece when compared to the previous one is the doubled sweet spot which makes hitting way easier for the players. It comes in various lengths for players ranging from 30 inches to 34 inches to make sure it suits more customers and players and everyone can have a taste of the fun. It comes as a one piece alloy construction bat and durable enough to last you a really long time.

Special Features of the MCBC7 Cat7:

This bat is packed with quite a lot of features that are sure to keep you waiting for match day once you have got and tested it.

• It comes with a large and doubled sweet spot which means hitting just got a whole lot easier and sweeter.
• Marucci added the 2ndgeneration Av2 Anti-vibration knob to help minimize the amount of sting felt by the hand as well as impact received after every hit or contact.
• Its ring free barrel gives you a greater performance due to its lack of dead spots meaning any spot used in making contact is just superb.
• It has a properly engineered barrel wall end which is well thickened and helps produce more balance and a faster swing.

Material and Size:

The bat is made of the AZ4X alloy construction material making it more durable and stronger. This one piece baseball bat is available in different sizes to suit various players and leave none left out from the fun. With its weight at about 3 pounds, the bat is just about balanced enough to good use.

Barrel and handle of this bat:

It has a 2 5/8 barrel diameter which is a BBCOR certified. It is made of a durable and very reliable alloy material and its one piece construction is just suitable. It has well thickened barrel walls which are suitable enough to make your hit feel easy. The handle has a knob attached with has the 2nd generation Av2 Anti-vibration tech and helps prevent the amount of vibration and impact felt by the hand.

• The bat meets with BBCOR rules and regulations.
• It is association approved and suitable for use in various leagues
• Manufactured by a trusted brand
• Compared to the Cat6 it has a double and larger sweet spot
• Alloy material is really strong and durable
• Anti-vibration tech provides one of the best feel.
• The bat comes in different sizes
• Although there is the Av2 anti-vibration tech, players still feel a little sting once in a while.

Why we recommend the Marucci MCBC7 Cat7 bat?

The Marucci MCBC7 Cat7 BBCOR Baseball Bat is pure class and quality. If you need a balanced bat that comes with anti-vibration tech, a better feel, great performance enhancement and a better and quicker swing then you have to go for this one. Its double and larger sweet spot just makes the game seem pretty easy and a product weight that is just about perfect. It is very popular amongst  high school baseball  players and it is the right choice. You can check also – How to Hit a Baseball Harder Step by Step

#03:   DeMarini Voodoo One (-3) 2 5/8″ Balanced USA Baseball Bat

Although they have been in the decade for not so long a time, they have been known for bringing nice technologically advanced baseball bats like the DeMarini double bat. They have only been around for about 30 years but are as reliable as ever. The DeMarini  Voodoo Balanced USA Baseball Bat was made specifically for the high school kids to help them improve their game and performance. It has a drop weight of -3 and a barrel diameter of 2 5/8 which makes it really suitable for your 13 or 14 year old kid. The bat comes with a single piece design and is made from the X14 alloy material.

Special Features:

• The bat has a 3 fusion handle which helps improves the weight control and balance of this piece and helps with better
• There is also a 3 fusion end cap that offers great sound and feel and optimizes the sweet spot

The DeMarini 2018 Voodoo baseball bat is made of is designed with the X14 alloy material which is very durable and reliable. The baseball bat comes with a drop weight of -10 which makes it suitable for young players. With a product weight of about 1.8 pounds, the bat is pretty lightweight and balanced meaning a better speed generation.

Barrel and Handle of DeMarini  Voodoo Balanced baseball bat:

The DeMarini Voodoo baseball bat has a one piece alloy barrel construction. It has a 3 fusion handle and end cap that help provide the player with better control and balance and also optimizes the sweet spot, sound and feel.

• X14 alloy material is pretty much durable and strong
• Its precise weight distribution makes it provide a better control
• It has a balanced swing weight
• DeMarini gave it a 3 fusion handle and end cap
• It is association approved which makes it suitable for use in various leagues
• Any player below 11 years of age will actually struggle with this piece
• Most players do complain of vibration effect being felt
• The price seems a bit much for a kid’s baseball bat

Why we recommend this bat?

This piece is very much a suitable product for young players seeking more control in their game. The bat has an exceptional control and a balanced weight making it a right choice for young players to use.

#04:   Louisville Slugger Solo 618 (-11) 2 5/8″ USA Baseball Bat

Louisville is on our list again with another beauty. This bat is designed basically for players looking to have their game improved. For those who want a bit more speed to their game as well as some precision. For 13 / 14 year old players, this bat is highly recommended. It is association approved which makes it suitable for any little league whatsoever. It might not be that magnificent or supremely different from others in the market. The bat has the SBC (Speed Ballistic End cap) which helps with quicker swing speed. Louisville made use of SL Hyper alloy in manufacturing this piece. It has a drop weight of about -11. This superb SL hyper alloy made bat coms with a 1 piece construction and a 2 5/8 barrel diameter. It is place at a somewhat right price if you tend to consider its features and qualities and regardless its affordable price range, it comes with a one year warranty.

Special Features of Louisville Slugger Solo 618 USA Baseball Bat:

The Louisville Slugger Solo 618 USA Baseball Bat comes with top and unparalleled features capable of making your day with the best feel and performance. It is packed with the Speed Ballistic Cap (SBC) to help with a quicker swing speed. Louisville also attached a new and custom lizard skin performance grip to give the bat more handling.

Louisville wanted a product that would be sure to last a long while and also give you the best of performance. The bat is made of the SL hyper alloy material which is very durable and has a very nice feel on the hand. It comes with a drop weight of -11 and a normal product weight of about 3 pounds.

The barrel of the glove is tremendous. The barrel of this piece measures at 2 5/8 in diameter. It is a one piece construction. Its alloy material helps the ball bounce off the barrel creating a better performance. It has a New Speed Ballistic End Cap which helps produce a better and quicker swing speed as well as a custom lizard skin performance grip to keep you hand well and firmly placed on the bat.

• It is association approved for all leagues
• It comes with a one year warranty from Louisville
• It comes at a reasonable and affordable price
• The bat is very durable and reliable
• A real performance enhancer
• Louisville made this piece to have a nice and recommendable grip
• There is surely going to be some sting felt by the player’s hands after contact
• Barrel is not really that special.

Why we recommend the Louisville Slugger Solo 618 USA Baseball Bat?

For players looking for better bat to help improve their performance then this should be your pick. It helps you work on your speed and gives you a comfortable grip as well. It is just about right with its price and also comes with a one year warranty.

#05:   DeMarini CF Zen (-11) Baseball Bat

DeMarini continued their tradition of extraordinary baseball equipment manufacturing with this piece. Their strong dedication for better products and technological advancements with new ideas is why the CF series is one of the most popular and recommended bats among young baseball players. This bat is revolutionary equipment made from carbon fibers which means it is a composite bat. It is pretty much durable and strong. It comes with perfect balance and comfort and in addition, a long barrel which means better and maximum plate coverage. This bat is surely a performance improvement piece and is guaranteed to help your kid step up his game. This baseball bat is association approved which means it is suitable for use in any baseball league. It has a drop weight of -11 which means it is just about right for the younger ones.

Special Features of DeMarini CF Zen:

• Made of Paraflex + composite material, the bat is sure to give the player a consistent top notch performance.
• DeMarini added a 3 fusion system to this bat. This means the player gets to enjoy great and amazing control. This 3 fusion feature also helps with a better feel and reduces any vibration effect as well as the redirection of energy back to the barrel.

Material and Size of DeMarini CF Zen bat:

The DeMarini 2019 CF Zen Fast pitch Bat is a composite bat made of carbon fiber. Their manufacturing material makes the bat very much durable and strong and sure to last longer while you get to enjoy top performance for seasons. It has a drop weight of -11 which is a perfect weight to give you the best of balance. It sizes around 28 inches to 33 inches which is about 17 ounces to 22 ounces making it a lightweight baseball bat.

Barrel and Handle of this bat:

The barrel is a composite material with a 3 fusion feature which offers a nice pop sound which is always appealing to hear after every hit. This 3 fusion feature also has the half and half which is the anti-vibration tech that reduces the vibration effect and also maximizes the sweet spot power when the player makes contact.

• The bat comes with an extremely easy control
• The bat is very much suitable for young players even those at the age of 8
• It has a very nice and consistent response
• Using this piece provides a very nice and comfortable feel
• It gives your hand minimal vibrations
• Weight of bat is just about perfect
• It is association approved and fit for use in various leagues
• The cost of this bat is really high and can be discouraging to some.

Why do we recommend the DeMarini CF Zen (-11)?

The DeMarini 2019 CF Zen Fastpitch Baseball Bat is just about the right equipment for young players to use and harness or sharpen their baseball skills and talents. Its weight is nice enough for even 8 year olds to handle. Regardless its cost which is pretty much, the bat has great features enough to make you be the king on the pitch. You can check also  Best Fastpitch Softball Bat for Power Hitters

#06:   DeMarini Vendetta (-12) 2 1/4″ Fastpitch Bat

It can be quite surprising to find another DeMarini product being featured yet again on our list of best baseball bats but this is just to show how exceptional their products are. It is just an evidence of their capability when it comes to manufacturing quality baseball bats. The DeMarini Vendetta Fastpitch Baseball Bat is definitely not lost in the list. If you need a product that not only offers you great power and responsiveness but admirable feel, then the vendetta is really your guy. Constructed from Paradox composite material, it offers soft sweet responses. The bat also features the D-lite handle which helps reduce hand sting during play offering you both a smooth swing and a better feel. This bat is suitable for both boys and girls of from 13 years and above. This two piece baseball bat comes with a length to weight ratio of drop 12 and is sure to provide you with the perfect swing weight balance. The bat’s swing weight and is kept low for easier control and a reduced vibration with the addition of the big D end cap. For players looking for the perfect grip and great control, the DeMarini Vendetta is at your service. This bat is approved and legalized for use in the various use. It also comes with a one year warranty from the manufacturer to relief you of any damage during that time frame.

Special Features of  DeMarini Vendetta:

The DeMarini is very much a classy bat to help players reach that top level performance all season long with its lasting durability and consistency. It offers players top class features to make them feel pretty much comfortable while they boss up the pitch.

• DeMarini added the D-lite handle for a reduced hand sting
• Big D end cap for better swing weight
• Paradox composite material for a better and softer response.

Material and Size of this bat:

The DeMarini 2019 Vendetta Fastpitch Baseball Bat is made of the best of composite materials and is sure to provide players with long lasting durability that will go seasons and come out strong. Its Paradox composite material is durable and provides a soft response. It has a drop weight of about -12 which makes it perfectly balanced and lightweight for easier use.

DeMarini made this piece with comfort and tight grip as a factor. It features the D-lite handle which helps in vibration and impact reduction and a big D end cap to help with better control, grip and balance. The barrel measures about 2 ¼ in diameter and produces a nice pop due to it Paradox material. The barrel possesses a larger hitting area for easy contact.

• This piece delivers an exceptional and top class feel.
• The addition of the D-lite handles helps reduce vibration and sting
• Bat comes with a nice grip
• Balance is highly recommendable
• One year warranty
• Approved by various leagues
• Some customers might find the bat to be too expensive

Why we recommend the DeMarini Vendetta Fastpitch Baseball Bat?

This piece is that one of a kind type of equipment. It is great swing balance, consistency, comfort and nice design all in one. If you need a bat with a perfect control even for your younger kids then this bat comes highly recommended.

#08:   DeMarini 2020 CF Zen Balanced (-5) 2 5/8″ USSSA Baseball Bat Series

Need a reason to improve your play this new season and other seasons to come then this new piece is definitely going to come in handy. The DeMarini 2020 CF Zen Balanced Baseball bat is good for young hitters. For one looking for more strength to their hit and more power this bat comes highly recommended.

The bat is a two piece construction made from composite materials which are sure to grant you maximum performance and durability. For the young hitters, this bat would surely increase the players swing speed and keep your power intact at all times.

The bat comes at a pretty high range for some customers but when considering the features and qualities it possesses it is always sure to be a right bargain. It also comes with a one year warranty from the manufacturers meaning you are always safe.

CF Zen Balanced Special Features:

• ParaFlex plus Composite Barrel
• 3 Fusion connection
• Reaction end cap

This piece is made of Paraflex plus composite material which makes it really responsive, flexible and also durable. Its construction material also makes it a lightweight bat. It has a length to weight ratio of drop 5 giving it a great swing balance and nice.

The barrel is a two piece Paraflex plus composite construction which provides a nice pop and sound. It has a huge sweet spot which creates an easier hit. The handle is infused with the 3 fusion connection which reduces the impact felt from any hit. It features the reaction end cap which increases the bat’s balance without having to sacrifice the speed of the bat.

• Approved for play in USSSA.
• 3-Fusion end cap optimizes the sweet spot, sound, and overall strength.
• Real performance enhancement bat
• 3-Fusion handle technology provides greater flex and feel.
• Balanced swing weight.
• Provides improved swing speed
• Fantastic flex with a premium pop.
• The bat comes with a one year warranty from DeMarini
• Very much pricy and would be too expensive for some customers

Why do we recommend it?

The DeMarini 2020 CF Zen Balanced USSSA Baseball Bat Series is all pure class. If you need a piece of equipment to help your kid with improved performance on the pitch, then this bat should certainly be the pick. It enhances and improved speed, balanced weight, optimized sweet spot, great feel and reflex with a reduced vibration impact and a nicely redirected energy down to the barrel whenever you take a swing. What else can one ask for?

Baseball Bat Sizing Guide For 13/14 Year Old

Getting the right size of bat for 13 / 14 year old player can be sometimes confusing and quite frustrating too. Some parents do find this to be a hard task to accomplish and sometimes end up buying the wrong bat size for their kids. This in turn makes the kid suffer because it then becomes an inadequate tool either too heavy to use or something else in particular. There are situations where you end up seeing a 9 or 10 year old kid trying to use a baseball bat measuring about 34 inches. He might always keep saying it is not too big to him but this would be after failing to make the third strike. There are various factors to consider when you want to check out the right size of baseball to purchase.

Bat Length:

To check the bat’s length, have your child hold the bat by the knob with the barrel placed on the ground. If the bat reaches the hip of your kid then it is just the perfect length. Never allow your kid make use of a bat that gets to his or her waist. It would be difficult to make use of such bat.

Bat Weight:

Yes the length of the bat is very much important but the weight is also as important. You can find a bat that has the right length but its weight makes it difficult for the kid to make use of it. If the weight is not as proportional it would not have a recommendable balance and would be hard for your kid to control. To check the bat’s weight, the child should lift the bat at a straight length with his arm like a 90 degree angle for about 30 seconds. If he feels uncomfortable before time then it is definitely not meant for him. Below is a bat weight chart you could use;

Baseball bat sizing chart for a 13 & 14 year old

Height &    Bat Weight:

Baseball Bat Buying Guide For 13 And 14 Year Old

There are several factors to consider when selecting what baseball bat you should select for 13 / 14 year old player. It is important to be well informed as it gives you an added advantage in the market. Here are a few guidelines and tips you should follow when you want to purchase a baseball bat;

1. Material:

First off, it is very important to know the construction material your choice of bat is made of. The materials are alloy or aluminum, composite and hybrid. In our list, we have given you different bats that comprise the different materials with an addition of their pros and cons. To decide which is the best or the winner amongst all of them is actually impossible. It all depends on the taste of the user or the player.

2. Bat weight:

When choosing a baseball bat, you need to always consider the weights if it is good for 13 / 14 year old  player you might be buying it for if you are not the user. Lightweight bats tend to offer a higher swing speed while a heavyweight bat provides more power and strength with every hit. It all depends on what you as the user needs and requires and if it if of the proper weight to give you a better control.

3. Bat length:

The  length of the bat  is always very important. It is good to use a bat with the right measurement in length for easier use and control for 13 / 14 year old player. The length is sometimes determined by the age and also the player’s height.

The price of the bat also comes into play. Always have a budget in mind for the kind of bat you want to get. It makes you be more calculative and carefully well restricted to a particular kind of bat. It helps so you don’t get to run into debt and you get to pick the best of bat from the choices presented by your budget.

5. League Approved:

The choice of bat you decide to purchase should be league approved which means it should come with the stamp or certification. If the bat is not certified, it means your kid can’t make use of it in the league and therefore it is a waste if an equipment.

Conclusion:

There are several brands now in modern day when baseball equipment is concerned with each manufacturer trying to get the better of the other with a new technological advancement or the other. It is always best to know your way around them and be guided. Follow our reviews of the best baseball bats as well as our sizing and buying guide, you would be sure to excel in this area and get the best baseball bat that will place your performance up top with the best of them.

You can check also our baseball glove reviews:

• Best Baseball Glove for 12 Year Old
• The Best Baseball Glove for 11 Year Old
• Best Baseball Glove For 9 & 10 Year Old
• Best Baseball Glove for 6, 7 & 8 Year Old
• Best Baseball Glove for 4 to 5 Year Old

My name is David Farnum and I’ve been a Little League Coach in my community for the past 7 years. With 2 boys playing baseball and 1 girl playing softball, most weekends I can be found near a baseball diamond.

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Last Updated on February 10, 2022 by David