Baseball Bats - Page 101

BBCOR, USSSA, and USA are three different certification standards for baseball bats, each with its own specific guidelines and intended use.

• BBCOR is designed to limit the "pop" or trampoline effect of the bat, ensuring a more balanced playing field. BBCOR is primarily used in high school and college baseball. 
• USSSA is less restrictive that BBCOR, allowing for a higher "pop" and greater distance. USSSA is the standard certification for travel baseball leagues. 
• USABat is the standard certification for youth baseball. The goal of USABat is to establish a wood-like performance for youth baseball bats. 

In addition to bat length, you will also need to determine your bat weight or “drop.” Your drop is the difference between a bat’s length and its actual weight. For example, if your bat measures 32 inches long and weighs 22 ounces, it would have a drop of -10. As an equation it would look like this:

(Bat length in inches) - (bat weight in ounces) = Drop

The bigger the drop, the lighter a bat will be. It’s important to know what your league’s regulations are for bat drop. At the high school and collegiate level, bat drop is regulated as players cannot use a bat with a drop over -3.

Composite and alloy bats are the two primary materials used in baseball bats, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Composite bats are generally lighter, more flexible, and offer better vibration dampening, but they can be more expensive and less durable.

Alloy bats are heavier, stiffer, and more durable, but they can be less comfortable and more expensive. The best choice between the two depends on your personal preferences, playing style, and budget.

The barrel is the thickest part of a bat, where contact with the baseball generally happens. Barrel size is determined by diameter, varying from 2 1/4“ to 2 5/8“. The upside of a larger barrel is that it provides more surface area to hit the ball, and therefore a bigger “sweet spot.” However, smaller barrels allow for faster swing speeds and better control.

Most baseball leagues provide guidelines for maximum barrel size, but there is always room for personal preference. Generally, younger players between the ages of 5-13 will benefit from smaller barrel sizes (2 1/4" - 2 1/2"), while teens and adults will be more capable of handling bigger barrels (2 3/8" - 2 5/8").

A properly sized bat enhances comfort, control, and power generation, while also preventing injuries. Consider factors like height, arm length, and swing mechanics when selecting a bat. By taking the time to find the perfect fit, you can improve your overall performance. 

Some factors to consider when determining bat length:

• Swing style: If you have a short, quick swing, a shorter bat can be better. If you have a longer, more powerful swing, a longer bat might be better.
• Weight: You should be able to comfortably swing the bat without feeling overwhelmed.
• League regulations: Some leagues have specific bat length restrictions, make sure to check these before buying a bat. 

Use this chart to find the best bat length for you.

• Does it meet current certification? Terms to keep in mind BBCOR, USSSA, USA, ASA.
• Check to make sure the knob is not loose or missing.
• Check for a grip; the grip is easily replaceable but will cost around $13.
• Check to make sure the bat is not bent.
• Inspect the barrel for dents or cracks. Remember, cracks in the bat's outer wall differ from "spidering," which only affects the paint layer.
• Check the endcap for cracks or looseness. If it's missing or damaged, don’t buy the bat—it can only be replaced by the manufacturer for legality in USSSA play. The endcap is crucial for sound, trampoline effect, and swing weight.
• Spidering on a composite bat is normal and indicates it's "hot" and well broken in. There's a key difference between paint layer cracking (spidering) and cracks beneath the paint, which suggests the bat is nearing the end of its life.