BEST OVERALL FASTPITCH
2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO
Swing: Balanced
A
94/100
2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO Fastpitch Drop 10
NewUsed
BEST YOUTH FASTPITCH
2025 DeMarini Prism+
Swing: Light
A-
91/100
2025 DeMarini Prism+ Fastpitch Drop 11
NewUsed
BEST 8U FASTPITCH
2025 DeMarini Uprising
Swing: Light
B-
81/100
2025 DeMarini Uprising Fastpitch Drop 12
AmazonUsed
BEST 10U FASTPITCH
2025 Easton Ghost Unlimited
Swing: Balanced
B
85/100
2025 Easton Ghost Unlimited Fastpitch Drop 11
NewUsed
BEST 12U FASTPITCH
2025 Easton Ghost Unlimited
Swing: End-loaded
B
85/100
2025 Easton Ghost Unlimited Fastpitch Drop 10
NewUsed
BEST 2026 FASTPITCH
2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO
Swing: Balanced
A
94/100
2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO Fastpitch Drop 11
NewUsed
BEST POWER HITTERS FASTPITCH
2026 Easton Ghost Advanced
Swing: End-loaded
B+
89/100
2026 Easton Ghost Advanced Fastpitch Drop 8
NewUsed
BEST CHEAP FASTPITCH
2023 Marucci Echo DMND Alloy
Swing: Light
B
84/100
2023 Marucci Echo DMND Alloy Fastpitch Drop 12
NewUsed
BEST GHOSTS FASTPITCH
2026 Easton Ghost Advanced
Swing: Light
A-
90/100
2026 Easton Ghost Advanced Fastpitch Drop 11
NewUsed

Compare the Top Picks at a Glance

Rank Bat Drop Barrel Swing Weight Material Price Range Performance Control Durability Value Best For
1 2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO -10 2 1/4 Balanced Composite $450 97 100 90 77 Most balanced all-around option for most hitters.
2 2025 DeMarini Prism+ -11 2 1/4 Light Composite $400 93 95 90 80 Younger players needing easy control and balance.
3 2025 DeMarini Uprising -12 2 1/4 Light Alloy $90 74 90 90 74 Young hitters around age 8 needing easy swings.
4 2025 Easton Ghost Unlimited -11 2 1/4 Balanced Composite $500 90 100 70 76 Young hitters around age 10 needing easy swings.
5 2025 Easton Ghost Unlimited -10 2 1/4 End-loaded Composite $500 90 98 70 76 Young hitters around age 12 needing easy swings.
6 2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO -11 2 1/4 Balanced Composite $450 97 100 90 77 Newest model with updated tech and feel.
7 2026 Easton Ghost Advanced -8 2 1/4 End-loaded Composite $500 90 98 90 72 Stronger hitters chasing max pop and distance.
8 2023 Marucci Echo DMND Alloy -12 2 1/4 Light Alloy $130 80 98 80 80 Budget pick that still delivers solid performance.
9 2026 Easton Ghost Advanced -11 2 1/4 Light Composite $500 90 98 90 77 Fastpitch hitters who love the Ghost feel.

Best Fastpitch Softball Bats [2026] Video

Best Fastpitch Softball Bats [2026] Deep Dives

#1

2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO

BEST OVERALL FASTPITCH
94 Score
2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO
📊 Grade: A
⚖️ Drop 10
🏷️ $450
🔧 two-piece-composite

Performance Breakdown

Performance 97
Control 100
Durability 90
Value 77
Swing Weight:
Loaded
🏆 BEST OVERALL FASTPITCH

The 2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO is one of our top picks for 2026.

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#2

2025 DeMarini Prism+

BEST YOUTH FASTPITCH
91 Score
2025 DeMarini Prism+
📊 Grade: A-
⚖️ Drop 11
🏷️ $400
🔧 Two Piece Composite

Performance Breakdown

Performance 93
Control 95
Durability 90
Value 80
Swing Weight:
Light
🏆 BEST YOUTH FASTPITCH

​The 2025 DeMarini Prism+ (-11) is a two-piece composite fastpitch softball bat designed for balanced performance. It features a Gapped Wall Continuous Fiber Composite Barrel, providing a large, optimized hitting area for consistent responsiveness. The Type-V™ Prism+ Connection integrates the barrel and handle, reducing vibration and minimizing hand sting. The drop 11 model is suitable for contact hitters and younger players seeking a combination of bat speed and control.

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#3

2025 DeMarini Uprising

BEST 8U FASTPITCH
81 Score
2025 DeMarini Uprising
📊 Grade: B-
⚖️ Drop 12
🏷️ $90
🔧 Single Piece Alloy

Performance Breakdown

Performance 74
Control 90
Durability 90
Value 74
Swing Weight:
Light
🏆 BEST 8U FASTPITCH

​The 2025 DeMarini Uprising (-12) is a one-piece alloy fastpitch softball bat designed for young players seeking a lightweight option to enhance their swing speed. It features a durable DX1™ Alloy barrel, providing a responsive hitting surface. The Big D™ End Cap helps absorb vibration, aiming to reduce hand sting during contact. The bat showcases a bright pink and blue design and is available in sizes ranging from 28" to 32".

Amazon Used at Sideline
#4

2025 Easton Ghost Unlimited

BEST 10U FASTPITCH
85 Score
2025 Easton Ghost Unlimited
📊 Grade: B
⚖️ Drop 11
🏷️ $500
🔧 Single Piece Composite

Performance Breakdown

Performance 90
Control 100
Durability 70
Value 76
Swing Weight:
Balanced
🏆 BEST 10U FASTPITCH

​The 2025 Easton Ghost Unlimited (-11) fastpitch softball bat is a one-piece composite design featuring the Double Barrel EXT, extending the sweet spot by one inch. It incorporates the VRS1 internal connection joint to enhance energy transfer and reduce vibration. Constructed with Sonic Comp Max material, the bat offers durability and low barrel compression. Additional features include the Power Boost Soft Knob and Flow-Tack grip for improved comfort and control. The drop 11 model is designed for players seeking a balanced swing weight with enhanced performance.

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#5

2025 Easton Ghost Unlimited

BEST 12U FASTPITCH
85 Score
2025 Easton Ghost Unlimited
📊 Grade: B
⚖️ Drop 10
🏷️ $500
🔧 Single Piece Composite

Performance Breakdown

Performance 90
Control 98
Durability 70
Value 76
Swing Weight:
Loaded
🏆 BEST 12U FASTPITCH

​The 2025 Easton Ghost Unlimited fastpitch bat is a one-piece composite design featuring the Double Barrel EXT, which extends the sweet spot by one inch. It incorporates the VRS1 internal connection joint to enhance energy transfer while maintaining a stiff feel. Constructed with Sonic Comp Max material, the bat offers durability and low barrel compression. Additional features include the Power Boost Soft Knob and Flow-Tack grip for improved comfort and control.

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#6

2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO

BEST 2026 FASTPITCH
94 Score
2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO
📊 Grade: A
⚖️ Drop 11
🏷️ $450
🔧 two-piece-composite

Performance Breakdown

Performance 97
Control 100
Durability 90
Value 77
Swing Weight:
Balanced
🏆 BEST 2026 FASTPITCH

The 2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO is one of our top picks for 2026.

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#7

2026 Easton Ghost Advanced

BEST POWER HITTERS FASTPITCH
89 Score
2026 Easton Ghost Advanced
📊 Grade: B+
⚖️ Drop 8
🏷️ $499
🔧 Two Piece Composite

Performance Breakdown

Performance 90
Control 98
Durability 90
Value 72
Swing Weight:
Loaded
🏆 BEST POWER HITTERS FASTPITCH

Third-generation Double Barrel construction with Sonic Comp Max composite

Amazon Used at Sideline
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#8

2023 Marucci Echo DMND Alloy

BEST CHEAP FASTPITCH
84 Score
2023 Marucci Echo DMND Alloy
📊 Grade: B
⚖️ Drop 12
🏷️ $130
🔧 Single Piece Alloy

Performance Breakdown

Performance 80
Control 98
Durability 80
Value 80
Swing Weight:
Light
🏆 BEST CHEAP FASTPITCH

This is an alloy version of Marucci's top end fastpitch bat. This bat is made of metal, not composite, and swings ultra light. It is made for the entry level player that wants a great look and a graphic connection to a high end line.

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#9

2026 Easton Ghost Advanced

BEST GHOSTS FASTPITCH
90 Score
2026 Easton Ghost Advanced
📊 Grade: A-
⚖️ Drop 11
🏷️ $499
🔧 Two Piece Composite

Performance Breakdown

Performance 90
Control 98
Durability 90
Value 77
Swing Weight:
Light
🏆 BEST GHOSTS FASTPITCH

Third-generation Double Barrel construction with Sonic Comp Max composite

Amazon Used at Sideline
Read Full Review

Performance Data Analysis

Comprehensive Metrics from our Top Fastpitch Bats

9
Fastpitch Analyzed
$391
Average Price
88
Avg Score /100
10
Test Metrics

Swing Weight Distribution

Light
4
Balanced
2
Loaded
3

Material Types

two-piece-composite
2
Two Piece Composite
3
Single Piece Alloy
2
Single Piece Composite
2
With the 2026 season in view, we refreshed the list using our bat ratings, sales trends, and player feedback. The 2026 Louisville Slugger KRYO line sits at the top for all-around performance and control. The 2026 Easton Ghost Advanced still leads the power conversation (drop 8) and works for contact hitters in drop 11, though durability can be the tradeoff. The 2026 Rawlings Mantra and 2026 DeMarini Lotus are the best new alternatives for 2026. For budget-minded players, the 2023 Marucci Echo DMND Alloy remains the best value under $250.

How to Choose the Right Bat (60-second guide)

  1. Confirm league rules. Get the right stamp and barrel diameter.
  2. Pick a drop that fits strength. Lighter drops swing faster; heavier drops add mass (drop ranges vary by league).
  3. Match swing weight to the hitter. Light = faster control, balanced = all-around, loaded = more power.
  4. Choose a model from this list. Use the table to match feel and budget.

Common mistakes: buying too heavy, wrong barrel, or hype over fit.

The Right Fastpitch Bat Size

Use this quick fit check before you buy:

  • Swing speed: If it slows the swing, go lighter.
  • Contact rate: If misses pile up, try a lighter swing weight.
  • Comfort: It should feel controllable through the zone.

Bat size chart for age/height baselines.

Reminder: swing weight matters most.

Rules + Reality Checks (Barrel, cold weather, and break-in)

  • Barrel rules: Confirm your league's diameter limit (2 1/4, 2 5/8, 2 3/4) and stamp.
  • Cold weather: Composite bats can crack in cold. Save them for 60F+ when possible.
  • Break-in: Expect 100-200 swings before peak performance.

Best Fastpitch Softball Bats [2026] Rumors

Most 2026 lines are out now. Expect early 2027 previews to show up late summer into the fall.

Should You Buy Used Fastpitch Bats?

eBay searches for the 2016 LXT Plus from Slugger are plentiful. Many of those searches turn up used bats—the history of which is often questionable. We’d suggest buying a used LXT Plus in some circumstances. In particular, we are more willing to purchase an LXT Plus that is a few months old instead of a few days old. There is a higher probability the problems of a composite bat will rear its head when it’s new. The fact the hitter never had a good enough experience with the bat to keep it suggests something may be wrong. This reality keeps us from ‘used’ bats only a few weeks old. On the other hand, bats with a season or so of good use prove the hitter had success with the bat but just outgrew it. Composite tends to get more productive over time, so a bat with a year of use likely performs better than one out of the wrapper. As such, we look for a dirty handle and scuffed up a barrel as a good thing in the used market.

How We Tested

To make our decision, we’ve spent over 200 hours testing, reviewing, reading, and writing reviews on every performance fastpitch softball bat in the market. This effort also includes nearly 40 fastpitch models with roughly innumerable sizing options. Most of our testing happened in cage work—much of the rest on the field among different hitters. Almost always, the hitter had multiple fastpitch bats at their disposal. The hitter often changed between one bat and another in just minutes. Further, we’d spend considerable time hashing out particulars of the bats we used with those who used it and those who manufactured it. Many of these conversations with players and engineers were long and helpful. Additionally, to our surprise, we found that writing our fastpitch softball bat reviews, which our readers vet, kept us on our toes. Our data needed to be both accurate and helpful. Some days a very tall task when considering bats in the performance fastpitch space are similar. Those processes above have led us, over the years, to conclude which bat generally fits the most amount of players. None of this is to say we’d hesitate to recommend other bats—as there are a handful of good ones. But the 2016 Louisville Slugger Drop 10 LXT Plus consistently rises to the top any way we slice the data.

Areas of Concern

It’s an admitted stretch to claim we’ve found the best fastpitch softball bat. Not that we can’t test and measure things scientifically, but hitting, at its core, is much more an art than it is a science. What bat is best for you individually can not be decided by some metrics and hitting data we’ve gathered. As such, we disclaim that the LXT Plus is the BEST bat for everyone. Instead, we claim this fastpitch bat is the best for more people than any other. We’d also be comfortable stating that nearly every player would succeed with this bat. If it is indeed the particular ‘best’ for your hitting and type and needs is a question we can’t answer.

What makes a good fastpitch bat

Four common themes arose in our testing from players discussing what they did and did not like about any particular bat. They are (1) the barrel size, (2) the balance point, (3) the feel of the bat at contact, and (4) the bat brands’ reputation. All preferred a larger barrel. Most liked a balance point in the middle of the bat instead of toward the end. And nearly all chose a relatively smooth hit on contact. These four factors weigh heavily in determining the best fastpitch softball bat.

Our Biases

We don’t imply this should mean we have no biases—all baseball and softball players do. We are among them. But we can say our livelihood does not depend on if you prefer a particular brand of bat that we review. In the end, we are parents and players who love the game and think it useful to share the data and feedback we’ve compiled. Our hope is the approach is both nonthreatening and unbiased. If other parents and players find something useful in these pages, then we feel successful.

Why Trust Us

Well, maybe you shouldn’t. We are simply a group of parents and players looking to document our collective performance on fastpitch and baseball bats. We don’t profess to be the end-all-be-all in determining bat performance. That quest is usually better left to science labs. But we’ve swung every baseball, softball, and fastpitch bat in the performance space since the middle of 2013. With that said, we’ve reviewed hundreds of bats. Within that process, we swing the bats extensively and talk to manufacturers about the bat’s design. We talk to players at all levels of the sport about their experience. Also, we study every available review we can find online or elsewhere. Then, we take that data and put together a 700 to 1200-word review that, at least, we believe, is the most thorough and objective you can find. We don’t sell bats as a manufacturer or a vendor. As such, we have no incentive to push a particular brand or bat type. No doubt, we do have incentives. Our motivations lie in convincing readers to click on an ad or follow a link to buy Amazon. It's not a guilt-free process, but it doesn’t come with any particular brand bias (as long as they sell it on Amazon or eBay).