Bats

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USSSA Certified

BBCOR Certified

Bat Certification

30.5"

32.5"

Length

12OZ

12.5OZ

13OZ

17OZ

18OZ

19OZ

20OZ

20.5OZ

21OZ

21.5OZ

22OZ

22.5OZ

23OZ

23.5OZ

24OZ

25OZ

26OZ

27OZ

28OZ

28.5OZ

29OZ

30OZ

31OZ

Other/Unknown

Weight

Drop

DeMarini

Louisville Slugger

Marucci

Nike

True Temper

Brand

Used

Condition

Composite

Alloy

Hybrid

Bat Material

High School & College

Kid Pitch (9YO-13YO)

Age Group

2 5/8"

2 3/4"

Barrel

2024

2023

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

Unspecified

Release Year

Black

Gold

Orange

White

Color

CAT X

## Marucci CAT X Bat

The Marucci CAT X is a single-piece alloy bat that features a huge barrel and powerful out-of-the-wrapper performance. Designed with precision, the CAT X exemplifies Marucci's commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and engineering in bat design. Founded in 2009 with a commitment to enhance the game using top-tier equipment, Marucci has since made significant advancements in bat technology thanks to direct collaboration with professional athletes. This relationship with some of the game's top players ensures Marucci's products are crafted with a keen understanding of what athletes truly need at the plate.

**Perfect bat for:** High school and collegiate players who demand elite performance, superior balance, and a more responsive feel from their equipment.


### Key features include:



* **AZR Alloy Construction:** Offers a more responsive microstructure for better feel, more forgiveness, and enhanced performance at the plate.
* **Multi-variable wall design:** Creates an expanded sweet spot and thinner barrel walls that are more forgiving after off-centered contact.
* **Ring-free barrel technology:** Provides maximum performance with no “dead” spots, ensuring every hit feels solid and powerful.
* **AV2 Anti-vibration knob:** Features an upgraded, finely tuned harmonic dampening system for better feel and less vibration.
* **Professionally Inspired Handle**: Features a removable taper and ergonomic knob shape for more top-hand control and comfortable swings.


### Top competitors comparison: The [Rawlings Velo ACP](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/rawlings/velo-acp/l164357) and the [Easton ADV 360](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/adv-360/l59709)

Marucci's CAT X sets itself apart with its unique AZR alloy construction and anti-vibration technology. It is ideal for players looking for a blend of traditional feel and modern performance enhancements. While the Rawlings Velo ACP leads the field with its Accelerated Carbon Performance for a lighter swing, and the Easton ADV 360 capitalizes on its Launch Comp™ technology for higher flex and response, the CAT X shines with its superior balance, reduced vibration, and increased sweet spot thanks to its proprietary construction and design features.


### Progression of the Marucci CAT X Baseball Bat:


Here is a list that details the progression of this series, highlighting the main features and advancements with each new model. 


**2019 - [CAT8](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat9-2/l163499), CAT8 CONNECT, CAT COMPOSITE**



* CAT8, CAT8 Connect, and CAT Composite are launched.
* The barrels of CAT8 and CAT8 Connect are constructed using the new AZ105 alloy for higher performance at the sweet spot.
* Introduction of SDX EXT connection technology for a stiffer connection and improved energy transfer.
* CAT Composite, a two-piece composite bat, is introduced with SDX EXT and ring-free barrel construction. 


**2021 - [CAT9](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat9-2/l163499) and CAT9 Connect**



* CAT9 and CAT9 Connect are released with the new AZR alloy for a more responsive microstructure.
* CAT9 features a 2nd Generation AV2 Anti-vibration knob and additional weight below the hands for better control.
* CAT9 Connect introduces the Outer-Locking System (OLS) for an even stiffer connection and virtually zero vibrations.

**2023 - [CATX](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat-x/l175792), CATX Connect, and CATX Composite**



* The CATX, CATX Connect, and CATX Composite represent a significant generational change.
* CATX features AZR Alloy with new barrel profiles and an ergonomic, custom-shaped tapered handle.
* CATX introduces Liquid-Gel anti-vibration technology.
* CATX Connect and CATX Composite maintain the OLS and introduce S-40 composite handle for increased performance and energy transfer.
* Barrel profiles are reshaped for better balance, with a focus on data from the Baseball Performance Lab.


### What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)

**PROS**



* Decent pop and has good barrel control. It seems lighter due to the way it;s balanced. If you’re thinking of moving up in size, do it with this bat.
* I got my son the CAT X BBCOR 33" bat. He chose it over his Voodoo One for his high school varsity games. The CAT X seems well-built, and other players using it have had no issues. In contrast, two of his teammates' Voodoo One bats have already broken this season.
* The grip is cushioned and comfortable. The liquid gel handle reduces vibrations and the "sweet spot" on the barrel is forgiving. Highly recommend this bat.

**CONS**



* The BBCOR Cat X is by far the worst Marucci we've ever bought. It has NO Pop and sounds like he's hitting rocks with the bat. The ball barely leaves the infield when he hits it. 
* Broken in by underhand toss of 160 pitches. Handle broke in a week. Wearing gloves saved the my son's hands.
* Unfortunately my son has been using this bat for only a few weeks and there is already something rattling in the handle.


### **Certification**: BBCOR and USSSA


### Expert Notes ([Tony](https://sidelineswap.com/locker/batexperts))

CATX came out in 2023. The first gen is a white ribbon silver bat. For the second run, Marucci came out with a version called the CATX Vanta. It's a blacked-out, limited-edition. Both gens are an alloy one-piece bat, both very strong performers. They took the alloy and strength from the CAT9 and applied the balance and feel from the CAT8 to develop the CATX.

Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
**Balanced** or End loaded?

Meta

## Louisville Slugger Meta Baseball Bat


The Louisville Slugger Meta series is at the forefront of technological innovation in baseball bats, offering players a high-performance combination of power and balance. Featuring Louisville Slugger’s patented 3FX Connection System and EKO™ Composite Barrel technology, the Meta delivers an explosive energy transfer. This bat also delivers a stiff feel with minimal vibration—and a massive sweet spot.

**Perfect bat for**: Young players unlocking their power in the batter's box, who want a lightweight design with a maximized barrel size.

 



### Key features include: 




* **EKO™ Composite Barrel:** Engineered for a light swinging weight and maximum barrel performance, producing a unique combination of speed and power.
* **3FX Connection System:** Provides a stiff feel on contact while significantly reducing vibration to the hands, ensuring maximum comfort and control.
* **Premium LS Pro Comfort Grip™:** Added to handle for added tack and cusion.
* **GT1™ End Cap:** Maximizes barrel length and swing speed, ensuring that players can make the most of their natural power.
* **Revolutionary Three-Piece Design:** Combines advanced materials and innovative technologies to offer a bat with unmatched feel, performance, and durability. 



### Top competitors comparison: [DeMarini CF Zen](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/cf-zen-2020/l8432) and [Easton ADV 360](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/adv-360/l59709)

The Louisville Slugger Meta distinguishes itself from competitors like the DeMarini CF Zen and Easton ADV 360 by offering a superior balance of lightweight performance and powerful precision. While the CF Zen is known for its Paraflex Plus Composite construction for flexibility and balance, and the ADV 360 features two-piece ConneXion+ technology for energy transfer, the Meta’s EKO™ Composite Barrel and 3FX Connection System create a perfect harmony of speed, power, and control not found in other models, setting it apart as the ultimate choice for serious athletes. 



### Progression of the Louisville Slugger Meta Series

Here is a list that details the progression of this series, highlighting the main features and advancements with each new model.

**2019 - [Meta Prime](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta-prime/l9512)** 
- Introduced 3FX™ Connection System, designed to reduce vibration and provide a perfect feel upon contact. 
- EKO™ Composite Barrel, offering a light-swinging bat with a massive sweet spot. 
 - RTX End Cap design maximizes barrel shape and improves the sound on contact. 
 
**2020 - [Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)** 
- Continued with the popular 3FX™ Connection System and EKO™ Composite Barrel. 
- Introduction of the Premium GT1™ end cap that maximizes barrel length and swing speed. 
- The 2020 model became known for its "EJUICE" technology, which created a highly responsive and massive sweet spot. 
- The bat was noted for exceptional balance and a significant reduction in hand sting. 
 
**2021 - [Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)** 
- Upgraded with the new VCX2™ Vibration Control Connection System, enhancing the feel and reducing vibration more effectively. 
- Retained EKO™ Composite Barrel for a light-swinging bat with a massive sweet spot. - Premium GT1™ end cap as introduced in 2020 continues, optimizing barrel length and swing speed. 
 
**2022 - [Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)** 
- New F2X Performance end cap design, enhancing barrel flexibility, and maximizing the sweet spot. 
- Continued improvements on the VCX2™ Vibration Control Connection System for enhanced feel. 
- EKO™ Composite Barrel technology persists, ensuring a lightweight feel with a large sweet spot. 
- Marketed also for its balanced swing weight, catering to contact and power hitters alike. 
 
**2023 - [Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)** 
- The latest Meta integrates all previous technologies while focusing on even greater balance and a faster swing speed without sacrificing power. 
- Materials and design updates aim to increase the sweet spot further and enhance the bat's feel during contact. 
- Continued refinement of the VCX2™ Vibration Control Connection System for optimal stiffness and flexibility, reducing hand sting. 


### What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)

**PROS**



* This bat has a fantastic feel, sound, and performance on miss-hits. It boasts one of the largest sweet spots in BBCOR. Although it lacks feedback, it is very easy to swing.
* Great feel and pop. Although I usually change grips, the stock grip on this bat is solid. The durability is very impressive as well, as the bat has already outlasted most others.
* No failures on Meta bats except cosmetic chips. They perform better than new. High school varsity team used 32-3 for 2 years without issues. Change grip tape yearly and keep hitting!

**CONS**



* The finish will chip if hit against spikes.
* It's expensive.... and not crazy about the color.
* This bat has no pop.


### **Certification**: BBCOR, USSSA


### Expert Notes (Parker)

The Louisville Slugger Meta is still a slightly newer model. The meta is similar to the DeMarini CF which offers a lightweight composite handle with a huge barrel made for every sort of hitter. A popular series that offers great jump-off-the-barrel when you hit the sweet spot and keeps the sting off your hands when the ball is missed on the cap or handle. 


Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
**Mid-balanced** or End loaded?

## DeMarini CF Baseball Bat


The CF series is DeMarini’s flagship line of composite bats, known for their innovative technology and exceptional performance for a wide range of players. The CF series combines comfortable contact, explosive power, and unmatched swing speed. Featuring Paraflex Plus Composite construction, the CF series has a large, light sweet spot, and its 3Fusion Connection dramatically reduces vibration and enhances weight distribution. 

**Perfect bat for**: Young players seeking a two-piece composite bat with maximum barrel control and pop.


### Key features include: 




* **Paraflex Plus Composite Barrel:** Engineered for consistent and responsive performance across a wide hitting area, enhancing pop and feel.
* **3Fusion Connection:** Reduces vibration and redirects energy back into the barrel, improving performance and comfort.
* **ReAction End Cap:** Increases barrel performance without compromising swing speed, optimizing the overall balance of the bat.
* **Two-Piece Construction:** Delivers a nice flex at contact, creating a whip effect that drives the ball with more force.



### Top competitors comparison: [Louisville Slugger Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403) and the [Easton Ghost X Evolution](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/ghost-x-evolution/bat-material-composite/l228675)

The DeMarini CF stands out with its exceptional use of Paraflex Plus Composite and 3Fusion Connection technology, which provides a perfect blend of feel, flex, and performance. While the Meta is celebrated for its EKO Composite Barrel and balanced swing weight, and the Ghost X Evolution is recognized for its Dynamic Feel System, the CF shines with its ability to deliver a large sweet spot, reduce hand sting, and maintain a consistently high level of performance, positioning it as a top choice for players who prioritize comfort and power.


### 
**Evolution of the DeMarini CF series:** 


Here is a list that details the progression of this series, highlighting the main features and advancements with each new model. 
 
**2015 - [CF7](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/cf7-2/l6993)**
- New Low Pro end cap and RCK knob for better balance and comfort. 
- ThermoFused Taper enhances the sweet spot and bat speed. 
- D-Fusion 2.0 handle technology further reduces vibration. 
 
**2016 - [CF8](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/cf8/l7553)**
- Lighter and more durable than previous models. 
- Introduction of the D-Fusion 2.0 handle across all models for improved feel and reduction of vibration. 
- Increased sweet spot size and better balance. 
 
**2018 - [CF Zen](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/cf-zen-2020/l8432)**
- Introduction of the ParaFlex Composite material for better weight distribution and performance. 
- 3Fusion handle and end cap for optimized weight control and minimized vibration. 
- Various drop weights available to accommodate different player needs. 



### What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity) 

**PROS**



* A kid in a slump hit his first-ever home run with this bat. It arrived just in time for a playoff game and worked great for my average-sized 11-year-old son - not too heavy.
* After breaking in this bat properly, it really performs well! My son uses it for our USSSA 8U Travel team and you can easily tell when it's hit on the sweet spot. The bat is also forgiving on mis-hits, often resulting in faster grounders than usual (for this age group) and very high pop.
* This bat has more pop than most USA bats, similar to BBCOR/USSA. We broke it in with tee hits, and my son hit missiles and balls over the fence on the first day. Expensive, but worth it for avid players.

**CONS**



* Great indoor results with the new non-Easton bat during coach pitch pre-season. Disappointing mid-season pop-up infield hits. I've always used Easton before, won't try other brands again.
* Great pop, but poor performance when missing sweet spot. Treated with care, but still cracked in Apr. Son upset I didn't allow use in cold weather, with heavy balls or pitching machines. It was mostly used as game bat last year, did not last into 2nd season.
* My son's bat barrel cracked after hitting his first HR, leaving him without a bat during All Stars and elimination series.


### **Certification**: BBCOR, USA, USSSA


### Expert Notes (Parker)

The DeMarini CF is a classic model that goes back to 2015 and offers one of the hottest models (2017) but is limited in use as its performance surpasses bat standards. Overall, the CF reflects a classic design which has been the same since 2015. A two-piece composite that offers a large barrel and sweet spot with a lightweight handle that creates a whip-like feel to it with the flexible connection between the handle and barrel. 


Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
**Balanced** or End loaded?

## 22. DeMarini Zoa Bat

The Zoa was DeMarini’s first baseball bat to feature Continuous Fiber Technology. Launched in 2022, it’s crafted to deliver a combination of power, balance, and barrel performance for elite players at the high school and college levels. Established by Ray DeMarini in 1989, DeMarini is known for their technological innovations and passion for bat design. The brand embodies the spirit of both amateur and professional players aiming to elevate their game, and the DeMarini Zoa is a testament to this legacy, showcasing a commitment to pushing the boundaries of bat design. 

**Perfect bat for:** Elite high school and collegiate players seeking a composite bat that provides a large hitting area without sacrificing a light swing weight.


### Key features include:



* **Continuous Fiber Composite Barrel:** Crafted for a lighter, more durable barrel with a massive sweet spot for unparalleled power and consistency.
* **Direct Connection Handle:** Offers superior energy transfer and a stiff feel on contact, designed for players who crave immediate feedback with each swing.
* **ReAction End Cap:** Increases barrel performance without sacrificing swing speed, optimizing the balance between power and control.
* **Two-Piece Composite Construction:** Delivers a blend of speed and power, allowing for maximum bat speed and a more efficient energy transfer.
* **Anomaly End Cap:** This precision-engineered end cap complements the Zoa's lightweight design, ensuring a blend of speed and balance that's rare in high-performance bats.


### Top competitors comparison: [Louisville Slugger Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403) and the [Easton Maxum Ultra](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/maxum-ultra/l165626)
 
The DeMarini Zoa sets itself apart with its Continuous Fiber Composite Barrel, offering a unique blend of durability, power, and a vast sweet spot. While the Louisville Slugger Meta is renowned for its EKO composite barrel, emphasizing a combination of swing speed and barrel control, and the Easton Maxum Ultra is favored for its seamless carbon construction providing the longest barrel in the game, the Zoa specializes in delivering a high-performance hitting experience with enhanced feedback and energy transfer, making it a prime choice for competitive players aiming to maximize their impact at the plate.


### Progression of the DeMarini Zoa Baseball Bat:


Here is a list that details the progression of this series, highlighting the main features and advancements with each new model.

**2022 - [Zoa BBCOR](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/zoa/bat-type-bbcor/l259878)** 
- Continuous Fiber Composite Barrel for consistent performance 
- Direct Connection handle system for increased stiffness and energy transfer 
- Gapped Wall technology to maximize barrel performance 
 
**2023 - [Zoa Glitch](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/zoa-glitch/l347741)** 
- Updated end cap for improved balance and swing speed 
- New colorway


### What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)


**PROS**



* My son just got a new bat to replace his META and it's great! It's hot out of the wrapper, has a forgiving barrel and almost no vibration. He absolutely crushed the ball. We can't wait to see how it performs when it's fully broken in.
* If you like end-loaded bats, this one has surprising pop with low noise. It feels good when squared up and I personally love it. My rating is 8/10. 
* "This bat increased my exit velocity and feels smooth when swinging. It's the best bat I've ever used."

**CONS**



* This bat is heavy and can be hard to locate the barrel. I recommended for very strong players. If you swing a drop 5 alloy, try a drop 8 Zoa.
* Sounds dead. My son hates it. We bought this bat because of the good reviews. Its expensive and has no pop.
* Only downside is that the weather needs to be warmer or it will crack the bat due to it being all composite.

 


### **Certification**: BBCOR


### Expert Notes ([Tony](https://sidelineswap.com/locker/batexperts))

The Zoa has a strong barrel and connection, making it a heavier, end loaded bat overall. Your smaller players don't get the same bat speed or same performance with that Zoa as they do with the CF. The Zoa is one of those power hitter two-piece composites. 


Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
Mid-Balanced or **End loaded**?

2022 Baseball Bats

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