The longest running independent bat reviews since 2015. Insights, analysis, and data-driven content from the baseball and fastpitch world.
Data from over 10,000 swings shows no clear performance differences among BBCOR, USSSA, USA, or fastpitch bats when measured in controlled cage settings. Factors like swing weight, scale weight, and balance point don’t consistently predict exit speeds, highlighting that the player’s skill and mechanics matter far more than the specific bat chosen.
The 2017 CF Zen Drop 8 (2 5/8) and Drop 10 (2 3/4) USSSA bats were deemed illegal for excessive performance. Re-tooled versions with orange end caps were introduced to meet compliance, but the original models remain highly sought after for their unrivaled power.
The Easton Ghost X and Rawlings Quatro face off in a detailed comparison of exit speeds, barrel size, and player preference. While both bats perform similarly, the Ghost X edges out with slightly better exit speed and a larger barrel, offering a smoother feel on mishits.
The $150 gear bag that thinks it's a transformer. Four bat sleeves, shoe compartment, converts to backpack, built like a tank. Overkill? Maybe. Worth it? Absolutely.
![The State of Travel Ball [Real Parent Survey Results]](https://assets.batdigest.com/blog/202507-is-travel-ball-worth-it-feature-desktop.webp)
Despite the substantial financial costs averaging over $2,000 per year, extensive travel demands, and an intense playing schedule, most parents remain satisfied with their children’s involvement in travel baseball. The data also indicates varied player workloads, limited downtime, and significant aspirations for college-level play, all while a majority of coaches receive some form of compensation.
Composite wood bats offer durability and performance not found in traditional single-piece wood bats, making them popular in minor leagues and youth baseball. Brands like Baum, DeMarini, Axe, and Mizuno are leading the charge, providing bats that mimic wood's feel while enhancing longevity.
Two-piece composite titans clash. CF brings proven Paraflex, ADV debuts Launch Comp. Similar performance, different feel. CF for reliability, ADV for innovation. Both cost too much.
The DeMarini Zen delivers exceptional performance, pushing the limits of composite bat technology. While its durability raises concerns, DeMarini’s warranty ensures buyers can swing confidently, as long as they purchase from certified vendors.
After asking 26 common bat-related questions, ChatGPT-4 scored about 75% for accuracy. While it nailed many fact-based queries, some nuances were missed, underscoring the importance of verifying information—especially when baseball bats and league-specific rules are involved.
USSSA bats consistently outperform USA bats, offering a 5 to 10% improvement in exit speed and total distance. This performance gap is attributed to differences in design standards, making USSSA bats a preferred choice for players seeking maximum power.