High school baseball is a great sport that requires the player to have many different skills: bat control, base running, and catching. One of the most important tools for success in high school baseball is the bat.
This article will list the 9 best high school baseball bats on the market today!
The Best High School Baseball Bats
A baseball bat is a wooden or metal club that is used to hit the ball after it has been thrown by the pitcher in baseball. It may be no more than 2.75 inches in diameter at the thickest point and no longer than 42 inches long by regulation.
Bats are not permitted to be hollowed or corked, which is to say that they may not be stuffed with a foreign material like a cork that reduces their weight.
In this article, we’ll focus on these quality bats in the market today:
- DeMarini 2019 CF Zen
- DeMarini 2020 Voodoo Balanced
- Louisville Slugger Meta
- DeMarini 2019 CF Zen Balanced (-3) 2 5/8″
- Easton BB17MK Mako Beast
- Marucci CAT8 Connect Black
- Louisville Slugger 2020 Solo
- Rawlings 2020 Velo ACP
- Wilson Sporting Goods Louisville Slugger
1. DeMarini 2019 CF Zen
The engineers designed this bat with a balanced design to provide the player with optimum swing speed through the zone. On the other side, for a flex-composite bat, you’ll get a premium feel and maximum pop off the barrel. The bat has a 3Fusion end cap that cuts weight at the end of the bat for a more balanced feel.
This baseball bat is made with a Flex 2 composite material to provide players with optimum energy transfer, durability, and performance. The 2019 CF Zen is enhanced with the 3Fusion System that allows for an extreme sweet spot size while maintaining a balanced swing weight.
This bat provides you with maximum speed through the zone due to its zero vibration end cap. This allows players to keep their focus on the ball and not the feedback of their bat.
2. DeMarini 2020 Voodoo Balanced
The bat is constructed of a lightweight alloy with a x14 strength. The barrel is made of a performance alloy that delivers maximum pop while being durable. The Marini Composite Bat is the next evolution of this innovative technology, which has been on DE Marini’s baseball bats for years. For better bat speed and performance, it includes a composite handle and an alloy barrel.
The bat is also constructed with 3Fusion connection: The slender design allows for greater weight management and feels while maintaining vibration reduction and energy transfer back into the barrel.
The end cap of the bat is comprised of a mix of stronger and lighter materials, which improves barrel performance without sacrificing swing speed.
3. Louisville Slugger Meta
The baseball bat meets the BBCOR standard. EKO Composite Baseball Bat is a bat that delivers the greatest performance possible, with light swinging and a big barrel for true sound.
The patented 3FX Connection System in this three-piece design allows for a wonderfully tuned “stiff” feel on impact while minimizing vibration.
The bat is constructed of a Premium GT1 end cap that enhances barrel length and swing speed. The balanced swing is an advanced technique for batting that combines the two most important aspects of striking: speed and power.
4. DeMarini 2019 CF Zen Balanced
For peak swing speed throughout the zone, a balanced design is most effective. The Para flex+ composite on the baseball bat gives you a premium feel on impact and maximum pop off the barrel.
This baseball bat also has a 3Fusion end cap that reduces weight at the end of the bat for a more balanced feel.
The bat also provides you with maximum speed through the zone due to its zero vibration end cap.
5. Easton BB17MK Mako Beast BBCOR
The Extended speed barrel design of this baseball bat combines the game’s longest two-piece composite barrel with the game’s quickest swing weight – it’s a monster.
The bat’s barrel has been redesigned to TCT Thermo composite, which is 1.5 inches longer than the original mako BBCOR bat.
Conation Technology, a two-piece design, maximizes energy transfer for a more realistic sensation. This bat is available with a composite 31/32 inch handle and 1.2mm HYPERSKIN grip.
6. Marucci CAT8
The baseball bat is constructed of AZ105 aluminum, which is Mariucci’s strongest aluminum and allows for thinner barrel walls, a faster response rate, and greater durability.
The bat has a Multi-variable wall structure that enhances the sweet spot and reduces barrel walls that are more forgiving after off-center contact.
The bat has no Ring, so it features a barrel constructed of a single piece. This design enhances performance and provides for more barrel flexibility while also eliminating “dead” spots. The barrel diameter of this baseball bat is 2 5/8″.
7. Louisville Slugger 2020
The Premium SL hyper super-light aluminum barrel with a thinner wall construction for maximum pop is an excellent alternative for power hitters. When hitting a shot out of bounds, the One-piece design with Vibration Premium Vibration Damping Handle Construction provides no sting on mishits.
The bat’s Speed composite end cap reduces weight to enhance swing speed. The lightest swinging model features an extremely balanced swing weight.
The bat is equipped with a Premium LS pro comfort grip that provides the optimal blend of tack and cushion.
8. Rawlings 2020 Velo ACP
The first baseball bat with enhanced carbon performance (ACP) to create the lightest swing weight feasible is the Vela ACP BBCOR (-3). It includes 2 inches of carbon composite for that ultra-light feel and a new profile for a longer, flatter swing.
This two-piece composite bat was designed for high school and collegiate batters, and it’s constructed of Ultra Light Carbon Fiber, making it ideal for hitters at the top or bottom of the batting order.
The bat has Vibration reduction and urethane-infused fibers for a smoother feel at contact, both of which protect the player’s hands.
The Ai909, a superior alloy that contributes thinner walls to the barrel of the Baseball bat’s barrel to improve exit velocity.
This bat is finely constructed of the highest quality materials and has a sleek black and metallic silver colorway that highlights its innovative technology.
9. Wilson Sporting Goods Louisville Slugger
This bat is BBCOR compliant.
The EKO Composite Barrel is designed to the finest of standards; it’s a light swinging, a huge barrel, and sound that’s true in the game. This bat’s three-piece construction, with the 3FX Connection System for a perfectly tuned “hard” feel on impact while reducing vibration.
This bat is constructed with a Premium GT1 end cap, which ensures optimum barrel length and swing speed. The bat is designed with a Balanced swing for the best balance of speed and power.
These are just a few of the best high school baseball bats on the market. Be sure to do your own research and find the bat that’s perfect for you.
A Guide in Buying a High School Baseball Bat
High school players are just like any other athlete in that they want to get the best equipment for their specific sport. What might be an average performance in a game could turn out different if you used better equipment, and baseball is no exception.
A lot of the high school players try to save up money for buying these types of things, but the problem is that they don’t really know how to save up their money in the first place. There are several ways for you to save your money when buying baseball equipment like the high school baseball bat, but it would require some planning on your end.
The things you need to consider when buying a high school bat:
1. Search for the bat weight and length that would fit you.
2. Decide if you want to buy a custom high school bat.
3. Use your savings instead of your wallet money.
High School Bat Weight and Length Guide:
The reason for this guide is because not all people are the same height and weight, so even if they are using the exact same position, you will still need to have bats that would fit your body well.
The best way to know which weight and length you should have is if you are able to swing it comfortably with ease during practice. The last thing you want is for the bat to weigh so much that swinging it feels like a chore, or that it is too light and you will not be able to defend yourself against the balls hit back to you.
Custom Versus Off-the-Shelf Bats:
The big difference between these two is that custom bats are made one by one, depending on the user’s specifications. This means that if you order a certain brand of bat, but the bat you receive doesn’t fit your specifications, then it is considered custom.
If you would like to buy an off-the-shelf bat, there are certain things that you need to consider as well. These bats could easily break if they aren’t sturdy enough, meaning that they won’t last for a very long time even if you buy them new.
These bats are still great to use, but the only issue is that there might be better options available for you.
Use Your Savings Instead of Your Wallet Money:
If you would like to buy a good high school baseball bat, then it would make sense if you started saving up for one. You could get cheap baseball bats for sale if you need to save up money, but it would do you more good if you started thinking about your bat before you even start playing.
For example, if the season starts in the summer and goes all throughout winter, then that is plenty of time for saving up. You wouldn’t have to worry about buying a new bat right before the season starts because you would already be prepared and ready to go.
Remember, practice doesn’t make perfect; it’s only when you use your equipment that will make you better at what you do. So instead of buying a cheap baseball bat every time because it is necessary, get one good high school baseball bat and get practicing!
Factors to Consider When Buying a High School Baseball Bat
The bat you use when playing baseball is one of the most important pieces of equipment you will have, regardless if you are playing in high school or just for fun. It should be lightweight enough that it causes the least amount of resistance so that your swing speed can increase, which in turn helps improve power and accuracy.
A bat needs to fit your size and strength. A bat that is too heavy will not only slow you down but also reduces accuracy, while a bat that is too light can cause damage on contact to the ball.
Knowing how to choose a high school baseball bat starts with making sure it is the right fit for you. Most bats are measured in inches from the handle to the end of the barrel; however, there are exceptions. Some companies offer a variety of sizes to fit your body type and build.
So what are the factors?
1. Weight
Weight is the first thing you want to consider when buying a bat. A bat that is too heavy will reduce your swing speed and make it slower to react, while a bat that is too light lacks power.
2. Weight Distribution
This is determined by the weight of the bat’s end vs its handle. The majority of the weight should be in the end of the barrel, which gives you more power when you hit with it. A light or unbalanced feeling bat at the bottom will result in reduced swing speeds and reduced accuracy.
3. Length
The next thing to consider is the length of the bat – not just how long it is, but also where its sweet spot is located. The sweet spot refers to the part of the bat barrel where you get the best transfer of energy from bat to ball. This is usually around 30-36 inches from the tip of the bat.
If you are a young player, then keep in mind that there are still some growth spurts left for you and playing with a 32 inch bat may be too long for you now but will fit after a couple more growth spurts.
4. Material
The two types of materials used in making a bat are aluminum and wood. Aluminum is a good choice for beginners because it has been engineered to be extremely lightweight, while also being durable enough to withstand harsh conditions over time. It does not, however, provide much power when the ball comes into contact with it.
Wood bats are more expensive because they require precision when manufactured, but they provide increased power when the ball is hit with it. Wood also provides a softer feel.
5. Grip
Last but not least is grip! A bat’s grip refers to its handle, which you hold on to while swinging the bat.
When it comes to wood bats, the ridged grip is generally preferred because it provides a better and more comfortable feel.
For aluminum bats, there are several types of grips to choose from: smooth, ribbed or dimpled. Smooth grips offer little to no resistance when gripping them; ribs help you stay in control; while dimples give you a firmer grip on the bat.
If you are looking for a bat for high school baseball or just to have fun playing with friends, remember that top quality bats don’t have to cost a lot of money. These factors will enable you to make a better purchasing decision when choosing the right bat for your needs.
Remember, always consult your coach and parents before making a purchase!
Benefits of Using a Wood Bat than an Aluminum Bat
Using a baseball bat is always fun because it lets you play ball and be part of the game. There are two kinds of bats that you could choose from, and they are aluminum and wood bats.
Aluminum bats were made to replace wood bats due to its lightweight, durable material, and affordability. However, there is an ongoing debate if using a wood bat is better than using an aluminum bat, and it does have its benefits that you should know about.
Here are some of the advantages of a wood baseball bats over a metal alloy one:
1. They’re easier to control – A metal alloy can cause a player to lose his or her balance when swinging it because of its weight. However, a wood baseball bat is significantly lighter and easier to control. In some cases, the barrel of a wood bat might weigh as much as one pound or more. This gives players that added advantage since they can easily maneuver it around and hit the ball with ease.
2. Control on the direction – Aside from being easy to handle, a wood baseball bat can also let a player control its direction. The barrel is not as thick as an aluminum one, which means that the owner has full control over it even when swinging.
3. More power – Wood bats are much harder than a metal alloy, so they have more power behind them when hitting the ball. It may take a while for a player to get used to the power since it is a lot more than what metal alloy bats can provide, but some players were able to immediately adapt and enjoy using wood baseball bats.
4. Better performance – Baseball players those days have been choosing to use a wooden bat as opposed to aluminum or other metal alloys. Wood bats are proving to be superior when it comes to performance. A lot of power and control is packed into them, plus they last for a very long time.
5. More valuable – Because of its advantages, wood bats have been known to be more valuable than metal alloy ones in the sports world. If you ever want to sell your old baseball bats, you can easily do so by selling an old wood one.
6. Better for the environment – Metal alloy bats produce a lot of carbon dioxide and other toxic material when made. Wood bats on the other hand are better options since they only use renewable material such as wood to be produced, making it better for the environment than metal alloy bats.
You can always make your own wood baseball bat and use it in the field when your favorite game comes up. A lot of people out there choose to do this instead of buying a metal alloy one, and they’re able to get their hands on some amazing wood bats that prove to be better than metal alloy ones in terms of performance and value.
Benefits of Using an Aluminum Bat
The aluminum bat is a popular choice among players of all ages and skill levels from beginners to pros, partly because it can provide many benefits.
Here you go…
- Aluminum bats tend to be lighter than graphite or composite bats, which makes it easier for young players who need the extra pop.
- The aluminum bat typically generates much more power than a wood bat (wooden) because it is made of metal and not wood.
- Aluminum is also much cheaper than wooden bats because it is much easier to produce and purchase.
Why Are Aluminum Bats Cheaper?
Aluminum bats are cheaper to produce and purchase for a few reasons.
Production Process
- The production process to make aluminum bats is very simple. Aluminum is also easier to work with than wood because it doesn’t have grains or knots that can affect the bat’s durability.
- Not only does aluminum come from a much more abundant resource, but it is also easier to refine as well as transport, which reduces the cost associated with aluminum.
- Aluminum is also a much cheaper metal than steel or graphite/composite material. Also, the fact that aluminum bats have been around for so long helps keep the price down because there is a larger supply of them out there.
Lighter, More Durable Metal
- Aluminum bats are typically lighter than wooden and graphite/composite bats.
- Since aluminum is a lighter material, it can help increase bat speed and create a faster swing.
- Since the bat is heavier, less force is needed to make contact with the ball giving you more power behind each hit.
- Aluminum bats are also known to last longer than wooden bats, which further reduces the cost because you don’t have to replace them nearly as often.
Cheaper Market
There is a bigger market for aluminum bats than other types of metal bats so there is more competition in this industry, which keeps prices down. Also, since there are more aluminum bats in the market it makes it easier to find one that fits your size, weight, and price range.
Other Considerations
Generally speaking, wooden bats are harder to break than aluminum bats because wood is much denser than aluminum.
However, when bat speed is increased in young players or in leagues where bat restrictions aren’t present, players might consider going with an aluminum bat because it allows them to generate more speed and power.
While a wood bat is a better choice for a young player or someone who isn’t familiar with the game because they are safer, aluminum bats often provide other benefits that should be considered as well.
When Does a Baseball Bat Become Illegal?
A baseball bat becomes illegal when it meets two conditions:
1) It has an “altered” bat configuration, and 2) the players using the bats have been notified of changes.
How is the bat’s configuration “altered”?
The bat commonly has a sticker placed on it by a batsman certifying that the bat meets ASA standards. This certification is removed from an illegal bat. So, an illegal bat typically appears to be of standard weight and size, but without a certification sticker/mark. Many times the certification sticker/mark is torn off.
The following is a list of possible alterations:
1) A bat with no flat surface on the hitting area (usually found with aluminum alloy or composite bats).
2) A bat that has been physically altered to make it bigger or heavier than standard (length, width, depth). NOTE: This is the part that many people misunderstand, so I’ll say it again: The diameter of any legal bat must not exceed 2 1/4″ at any point, but it can possess more of a flare than its original design (e.g., an aluminum alloy bat). A legal ash wood bat cannot be made bigger or heavier with sanding or filling.
3) A bat that has been altered by adding weight other than what is provided by the manufacturer to balance a legal bat. NOTE: If there are external weights attached to a legal bat, this does not make it illegal–It’s just so stupid it never happens anyway. I have seen players modify their bats with lead tape or liquid lead.
4) An illegal bat is one that has been lengthened (i.e., by sawing or measuring). This makes an illegal “2 piece” or “multi-piece” bat. NOTE: There are bats on the market that, by design (or accident), can be lengthened up to 6 inches for players who desire a longer bat. The bat becomes illegal when it is intentionally lengthened beyond 6 inches.
5) A bat with a “cupped” end, which creates a trampoline effect and increases performance (i.e., an aluminum alloy or composite bat). NOTE: It’s very difficult to determine whether the cupped part of the end is intentional (i.e., for performance) or not, so the whole bat is illegal in this case.
6) A bat with a “malformed hitting surface” (this usually applies to composite bats). NOTE: The term “malformed” can be very subjective when trying to determine whether it’s intentional or not, so the whole bat is illegal in this case.
7) A bat with a “thickened” hitting area (this usually applies to aluminum alloy bats). NOTE: This is so blatantly intentional it’s laughable–but if you can prove that the thickening was unintentional, it’s legal.
8) An illegal two-piece bat has been assembled improperly. NOTE: The term “improperly” can be very subjective when trying to determine whether it’s intentional or not, so the whole bat is illegal in this case.
9) A two-piece bat that has been glued together (most often found with aluminum alloy bats).
How is a player notified of changes?
A player is notified of changes when he receives a “notification” from the manufacturer, or written notification from ASA. The following are considered acceptable notifications:
1) Inclusion of a separate sheet with instructions attached to each bat. NOTE: If the instructions are glued to the handle and not attached via string/tape/permanent marker, this is not considered acceptable.
2) A label indicating any changes on the bat’s handle. NOTE: If the label is glued to the handle and not attached via string/tape/permanent marker, this is not considered acceptable.
3) A permanent stamping/marking on the bat indicating changes. NOTE: If there are no letters, numbers or symbols (i.e., just a blank field), this is not considered acceptable.
4) Any other method of notification approved by the ASA Equipment Committee (E-board).
It is important to note that there are bats available on the market with no stamping/markings on the bat at all–not even the brand name–and the bat is completely legal if it’s not altered. So if you have a bat without stamping/markings, there is no reason to panic.
In most cases, players are notified of changes when they receive the bats from the manufacturer or distributor during preseason inspection. Most manufacturers and distributors send notification via standard US Mail, so it usually takes about a week for your bats to be inspected and for you to receive changes notification. The only way to get your bat changed quicker is if you have a direct relationship with the manufacturer or distributor.
So how do you know which bats are legal?
The ASA Equipment Guide contains the ASA Approved Bat List , which tells you exactly what can be made out of each material (aluminum alloy, composite, etc). If it’s not in the Equipment Guide, it’s illegal.
There are a few exceptions to this rule:
1) Composite bats that have been ordered pre-approved from ASA. NOTE: The manufacturer has been told exactly what is legal for each model, so these bats are legal if they follow the design specifications.
2) Bats made in a foreign country (i.e., Europe or Japan). NOTE: These bats must meet with international requirements to be legal.
3) Bats that have been approved after the Equipment Guide was printed (i.e., a new model of alloy bat). NOTE: A manufacturer must send this new design to ASA Headquarters, and the E-board has to approve it before it can go on the list. This process usually takes about six weeks, so the bat will usually be legal for the next uniform inspection.
4) ASA and USSSA approved two-piece alloy bats (must be stamped with “ASA/USSSA 2 Piece” and model number). NOTE: These bats must meet certain construction criteria to be legal. The most important of which is that the seam must go straight down the barrel of the bat (no bulge on the handle).
5) ASA-approved two-piece composites (must be stamped with “ASA 2 Piece”). NOTE: The only legal composites are those that come out of Louisville Slugger’s factory. You cannot make your composite bats without Louisville Slugger’s permission, because they hold an exclusive patent for this technology.
For most players and associations, these exceptions will not apply to them. This means that most of the bats you see on the market are illegal because they have either been drilled or altered in some way.
What Does Heat Rolling Mean in Baseball Bat?
A heat rolling means to use a bat that has been heated up in order to get the bat hot prior to using it. A lot of players do this for various reasons. Some say it will increase the speed of your swing while others say that if you hit with an unheated bat then the ball won’t go as far when using it.
- Heat rolling is mainly for wood bats that are made of ash, though other types of wood may be heat rolled as well. The main object to heat roll a bat is to make the bat slightly bigger because once you heat up the wood it will expand and stay expanded until after it has cooled down again. Once you do this it will go back to its original size, but not all the way back. It will still be slightly bigger than it originally was before heating it up, which can help you hit further with your bat.
- Heat rolling also helps batters know their bat is ready to use every time they heat it up. Each time you heat roll your bat then each time after that it will be ready to go in a fraction of the time. You can save a lot of time in between if you heat roll your bat often.
- Heat rolling works best when the wood is heated up with steam, which is basically just hot water out of a spray bottle. In order for this to work then your bat must be dipped into the hot water, right down the middle of the barrel. Then it must be dried off with a rag or towel. This can be quite difficult to do especially if your bat is longer than usual because the handle may not fit into the sink that you are using for this process.
You can also just purchase a pre-heat rolled bat which will already be bigger and ready to use.
How Often Do You Have To Heat Roll a Bat?
You can heat roll your bat as often as you would like, many players do it every day or even multiple times a day because they get tired of heating their bat up each time before batting. It may take you longer to get your swing started if you don’t heat roll it, which is the main reason why players do this.
You can also heat roll your bat as much as you want, but make sure that you are heating the bat to proper temperatures in order for it to be completely safe and not break when using it. If you cannot touch the bat because it’s too hot then you’ve heated the bat up too much and it may break when you hit it.
How Long Does It Take to Heat Roll a Bat?
Depending on how hot your water is, and how long you leave the bat in the water will determine this process. You can heat roll your bat in about 2 hours if you use very hot water and keep it in there for over 3 minutes. If you use water that is not even steaming then it will take about 4 hours to heat roll your bat completely.
Also, if you choose to purchase a pre-heat rolled bat then this process may be done for you when purchasing or shipping the bat; though they may still be slightly smaller than what the bat was originally.
What are The Benefits of Heat Rolling a Bat?
There are many benefits to heat rolling your bat, which includes it being slightly bigger when you use it which can lead to hitting further with it. Also, you do not have to put as much effort into heating up your own bat. There is also the benefit of knowing that each time you heat roll your bat then it will be ready to use in no time at all.
The benefits include:
1. A slightly bigger bat which will help you hit further
2. Your bat is ready to use in a fraction of the time, each time you heat roll it
3. You don’t have to put as much effort into heating up your own bat since it won’t take as long.
4. Knowing that your bat is ready to use with less effort each time after doing this process.
What is The Downside To Heat Rolling a Bat?
The only real downside to this process is having to wait longer for it and heating up the bat too much which can make it break when using it. There may also be the chance of getting burned when trying to heat roll your bat. However, this can be prevented by simply using tongs or gloves while doing so.
There are many ways to heat roll a baseball bat but for the most part you have to do it with steam. This is done by heating up water until it evaporates into steam then dipping the bat into it with tongs or gloves.
You can then dry off the bat and wait until it cools down, which is done by using a rag, towel, or shirt to rub-down the bat.
Conclusion
The best high school baseball bats can be heat-rolled to make them bigger and ready to use. When choosing a bat make sure that the qualities of the bat are what you’re looking for, and if they are not then you can always heat roll the bat to make it bigger.
