The 2017 Covert, like its predecessor the 2016 Nighthawk, is a two-piece hybrid bat combining a composite handle with an aluminum alloy barrel. Mizuno has enhanced the alloy for the Covert, enabling thinner walls for a larger sweet spot, claimed to be 22% longer than the Nighthawk's, without compromising durability. This adjustment also reduces the swing weight, making the Covert lighter and more manageable while maintaining a mid-balance feel.
Models Overview
We recently hit with the BBCOR and Big Barrel versions of the new 2017 Mizuno Covert. Our hitting experience was mostly in cage, although we took it to the field to see ball flight as well. We also exchanged a number of emails with Mizuno to dial in our understanding of the bat and how it upgraded from the 2016 Nighthawk. As well, a number of trusted online sources were referenced for details and other player experience on the Covert. All of this information is compiled below in our 2017 Mizuno Covert Review.
Performance Comparison
The 2017 Mizuno Covert is a new name in the 2017 Mizuno line of baseball bats. It should be considered the next generation 2016 Mizuno Nighthawk. The name change, as far as we have gathered, is to clear up the confusion between the Mizuno Nighthawk fastpitch line, made up of two-piece composite bats, and the Nighthawk baseball line, made of hybrid bats. The Covert model should be the hybrid baseball bat name going forward.
Amazingly, Mizuno has only been in the metal and composite bat space for 3 years. Mizuno is dead serious about making top-shelf performance bats in the BBCOR and Big Barrel space. Seriously, watch out.
Comparable Bats
The two-piece hybrid bat with a mid to light swing has a few competitors. None have the same tapered inner barrel the Mizuno Covert uses, but a few get some good barrel size and performance reports.
Two bats, in particular, come to mind. The 2016 Louisville Slugger 716 (Our review) and the 2017 DeMarini Voodoo Balanced (our review). Both have similar price points, swing weights, and performance metrics as the 2017 Mizuno Covert. Those looking for similar bats may want to check them out as well.
Expert Recommendations
Those who have used the 2016 BBCOR Nighthawk came away impressed. Additionally, although always wary of believing so-called user reviews, the Nighthawk rarely receives anything but maximum stars. Most players comment on the pop of the bat and how surprised they are few players use, or even know, the bat. Like last year, we would recommend the 2017 Covert to players who:
- Appreciate a mid to low-swing weight bat
- Like the hot out-of-the-wrapper feel of a top-shelf hybrid
- Want a good-sized barrel with good performance
- Are not in the Youth Barrel (2 1/4) space
- Looking for something a bit off the beaten path that still competes with any bat on the market
- Although $300 in BBCOR at release, those on a budget might look at last year's Nighthawk despite the smaller barrel and heavier swing
- Preferring an ultra-light swing weight
- Looking for a massively over-sized barrel
- Seeking an end-loaded feel
- Preferring a single piece or composite barrel
