We've always been fans of the Slugger Meta. The 2022 line is no different. It is the same as the 2022 versions of the bat, with the addition of a USA to round out the USSSA and BBCOR versions. They also added a new end cap to the USA version of the bat. But, other than those changes, the bat is unchanged. We still like it. Despite its high price and the fact that its peak popularity passed, it's still a great bat in BBCOR and has real potential in the USSSA space to compete with the CF and Marucci CAT Composite. There is also a META PWR version you can find directly on Slugger's website.
Models Overview
These models range toward 10/10 rankings due to their fantastic feel, high user ratings, and high-performance marks when we test them. The biggest drawback of these bats is the price, so consider that when looking for the right stick. In the end, no one with a Meta wishes they had another bat. Except for the drop 12 USA bat, all the others are highly recommendable.
Construction & Technology
Slugger's 2023 Meta comes with an "EKO" composite-engineered barrel that allows for a very light structure and a massive profile. It sounds great, too. The connection piece is called the '3FX,' and it uses a loving system with a lot of flexibility---so the sting is usually nonexistent on the META; most hits feel pretty good. The end cap, they call the "GT1," is a single piece of plastic that is light and helps bring down the swing weight even further. Slugger uses the same LS Pro Comfort Grip they have had for the last several years.
Performance Comparison
Except for the USA version and its new end cap, the 2023 Slugger Meta has not changed from the 2022 versions. It comes in a drop 5, 8, and 10 in USSSA and BBCOR. It's a two-piece composite with a big barrel meant for a light swing.
Comparable Bats
Several two-piece composite bats with premium price tags are positioned as they best a company has to offer. That includes bats like DeMarini's CF, Easton's Hype, and Marucci's CAT Composite.
Expert Recommendations
Below is the breakdown of each 2023 Slugger Meta. Note that the 2023 Meta PWR is found only on Sluggers site directly and runs significantly heavier (10%+) in swing weight compared to the non-PWR version. The bats are highly recommendable, especially for that player who wants as much plate coverage per swing weight as possible. The 2023 Slugger Meta bats feel fantastic, and the flexible connection makes every hit feel like a tank. If the 2022 version is available and for a cheaper price, it'd be a smart buy to get that, as there are no changes.
