Marucci is releasing an upgraded bat for 2021 called the Marucci CAT X Composite. The bat is a two-piece composite bat found in USSSA and BBCOR. The bat will compete directly in a competitive two-piece market against bats like the META, CF, ADV, and Quatro Pro. According to some of our hitters, the bat has a balanced swing, a huge barrel, and hits absolute rockets.
Models Overview
Our hitters like the big barrel, smooth swing, and fantastic feel of the 2021 Marucci CAT X Composite. The drop 5 CAT Connect competes with the best in the business and, for 2023, adds a 33-inch size too.
Construction & Technology
Marucci's CAT Connect is a two-piece composite bat built with a HUUUGE barrel and nice connection piece. The connection piece, which helps absorb mishit balls' sting, is the same one used on the high-end BBCOR CAT X Connect.
Performance Comparison
The 2023 Marucci CAT X Composite is a revamped version of the rather popular 2021 Marucci CAT 9 composite. The changes are significant; here are some bullet points explaining them.
CAT 9 Composite vs. CAT X Composite
Cat X Composite- .5” lower balance point compare to Cat X Composite BBCOR. Decent change in balance to fit more hitters. In between the balance of the Cat X and Cat X Connect.
- Slight change in composite barrel design for higher initial performance.
- The New S40 handle is stiffer than the Previous composite handle.
- Allows for faster energy transfer to the ball. 34mm hard taper modeled after for more top-hand control and more ergonomic fit (similar to the most popular wood turn, AP5). This piece is removable if wanted.
Comparable Bats
The idea of a two-piece composite bat with a HUGE barrel is common in the USSSA space. Companies like DeMarini and the CF Zen, Easton and their Ghost X (Mako), Rawlings and their Quatro have been living there, and thriving there, for quite a while. The CAT Composite reminds us most of a nearly unheard of bat in the Mizuno Ghost in terms of barrel size. However, as of 2018, the Mizuno Ghost was only a USA Bat. Marucci has yet to get into the USA space. If we compare construction and drop sizes, then bats like Easton's Ghost X and DeMarini's CF Zen fit a close competitor to the CAT Composite.
Expert Recommendations
The CAT X Composite is the real deal. If you play many games, see high pitch speed, and are willing to spend the money it takes to get top-end gear, then the CAT X Composite should be on your shortlist.
