Guide to Finding the Right Baseball Bat

A person can use any bat for the game of baseball. This is especially true when people are playing recreationally. However, when players are competing on the field, the recommended bats best suited for the game. Now let us find out what you should look for when selecting a baseball bat for playing a game.

Materials Used for Baseball Bats

Materials used for baseball bats include wood or metal. However, many professional baseball players use wooden bats made from maple. Wooden bats allow for greater vibration throughout the stick. Metal bats reduce the vibration experienced by players. Professional and experienced ballplayers will know how to hit with their bat. This will reduce the problems associated with vibration. This is also true for people who use metal bats.

Alloy bats are the third option. They are made from wood but have metal handles. This type of bat reduces hand sting and is designed for inexperienced and young players.

Length of Bat

Standard bats are 42-inches long. This type of bat is 3-feet and 6-inches in length. A bat this long is often used by pro and seasoned players. However, a bat of this length is not recommended for younger players. Younger players have not developed their skills or can effectively manage a standard size bat. They will need a shorter club for hitting. Remember a bat should not be too long because it can make it harder for a player to develop their hitting fundamentals and skills. Also, players should avoid smaller sized bats because this too can make them less effective hitters.

Weight of the Bat

MLB bats must weigh at least 2 pounds. Some bats can weigh as much as 3 pounds. When a bat starts to weigh 3 pounds or more, they become less effective at hitting. If a player is really strong, their strength can overcompensate for the extra weight on a batting club. However, players should want their bats to have enough weight to put force on a ball but light enough to effectively manage their club. Kids and younger players should use lighter weight bats until their upper body strength is developed enough to handle the heavier bats.

Bat Ratings for Age Groups

Different associations regulate the sport of baseball. These associations establish guidelines that will help players to be more effective hitters. Kids that are between the ages of 4-6 are recommended to use T-Ball styled bats. USA bat governs young kid’s play. Players between the ages of 7 – The USSSA bat rules govern players between 7 and 13 years of age. The BBCOR bat regulations are used for players 14-18. Once a player reaches the age of 18, there will be other regulations in place to help establish what type of bats they should use.