Baseball & Softball Bat Size Chart
Data-driven bat sizing based on 4,000+ player inputs. Unlike generic charts, ours uses real player data to help you find the perfect bat length and drop weight for optimal exit velocity and control.
by Bat Digest Editorial Team
Choosing the right bat size is crucial for maximizing performance at the plate. Our comprehensive bat size chart uses data from over 4,000 players to provide accurate recommendations based on age, height, weight, and skill level. Whether you're looking for youth baseball, fastpitch softball, or BBCOR sizing, our data-driven approach ensures you find the perfect fit. For advanced players looking to optimize further, check our swing weight calculator to fine-tune your bat selection. Learn more about our methodology.
Interactive Bat Size Calculator
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Baseball Bat Size by Age Group
Ages 6-8
| Age | Common Lengths | Weight Range | Most Popular |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 26"-27" | 14-16 oz | 26"/15 oz |
| 7 | 27"-28" | 15-17 oz | 27"/16 oz |
| 8 | 28"-29" | 17-19 oz | 28"/18 oz |
Recommendation
Focus on bat control over power. A lighter bat that can be swung properly is better than a heavier one that can't.
Ages 9-10
| Age | Common Lengths | Weight Range | Most Popular |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 28"-29" | 18-19 oz | 29"/19 oz |
| 10 | 29"-30" | 19-20 oz | 29"/19 oz |
Drop Weight
Most players this age use drop 10 or drop 11 bats. Consider player strength when choosing.
Ages 11-12
| Age | Common Lengths | Weight Range | Most Popular |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 30"-31" | 22-23 oz | 30"/22 oz |
| 12 | 30"-31" | 22-23 oz | 31"/23 oz |
Drop 8 Transition
Ages 11-12 should use drop 8 bats to prepare for heavier bats in the future.
Age 13 (Non-BBCOR)
| League | Common Lengths | Drop Weight | Most Popular |
|---|---|---|---|
| USSSA | 31"-32" | Drop 5 | 31"/26 oz |
| USA | 31"-32" | Drop 5 | 32"/27 oz |
Drop 5 Recommended
We strongly recommend drop 5 bats at age 13 to build strength for BBCOR drop 3.
Ages 13-17 (BBCOR)
| Age | Common Lengths | Drop Weight | Most Popular |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13-14 | 31"-32" | Drop 3 | 32"/29 oz |
| 15-16 | 32"-33" | Drop 3 | 33"/30 oz |
| 17+ | 33"-34" | Drop 3 | 33"/30 oz |
BBCOR Standard
All BBCOR bats are drop 3. Length ranges from 29"-34", choose based on strength and preference.
Fastpitch / Softball Bat Sizing
Softball bat sizing follows similar principles to baseball but with some key differences in drop weights and barrel sizes.
Fastpitch softball bats typically range from 28 to 34 inches in length with drop weights from -8 to -13. Youth players (ages 8-12) generally use lighter drops (-11 to -13) while high school and college players use heavier drops (-8 to -10). The most popular fastpitch bat sizes are 32"/22 oz and 33"/23 oz for high school players.
When selecting a softball bat, consider the player's hitting style. Power hitters often prefer end-loaded bats with lower drop weights for maximum momentum through the zone. Contact hitters typically choose balanced bats with higher drop weights for improved bat speed and control. The barrel diameter also matters - fastpitch bats have a maximum 2¼" barrel diameter.
League regulations are crucial for softball bat selection. ASA/USA Softball, USSSA, NSA, and ISA all have different approved bat lists and performance standards. High school players must use bats with the NFHS certification mark, while college players need NCAA-approved models. Always verify your bat meets your league's current standards before purchasing.
Fastpitch Size Chart by Age
| Age Group | Bat Length | Drop Weight | Most Popular |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8-10 years | 28"-30" | Drop 11-13 | 29"/18 oz |
| 11-13 years | 30"-32" | Drop 10-12 | 31"/20 oz |
| 14+ years | 32"-34" | Drop 8-10 | 33"/23 oz |
Softball Sizing Tips
- Fastpitch allows lighter drops than baseball
- Consider swing style: power vs. contact
- Check league approval lists carefully
- Test balanced vs. end-loaded options
Factors Beyond Age
Height & Weight
Taller and heavier players generally use longer bats, but our data shows exceptions. Very tall players often prefer shorter bats for better control.
Strength & Skill
Stronger players can handle heavier bats, but skill level matters too. Advanced players often choose lighter bats for improved bat speed.
League Requirements
Different leagues have different standards. BBCOR is always drop 3, while youth leagues allow lighter drops.
Personal Preference
Some players prefer end-loaded bats for power, while others prefer balanced bats for control. Try different options when possible.
Pro Sizing Tips
Test Swing
Hold the bat straight out for 30 seconds. If you can't, it's too heavy.
Swing Speed
A lighter bat swung faster often produces better results than a heavier bat swung slowly.
Growth Room
Don't buy too big expecting growth. Players perform better with properly sized bats.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
"He'll grow into it"
Oversized bats hurt performance and can develop bad swing habits. Buy for current size.
"Heavier = More Power"
Bat speed generates power. A lighter bat swung faster often produces better results.
Ignoring League Rules
Check your league's bat requirements first. Different leagues have different standards.
Not Testing First
Try swinging similar bats before buying. Comfort and control matter more than specs.
Our Methodology
Our bat size recommendations are based on comprehensive data analysis of over 4,000 player inputs collected since 2016. We continuously update our dataset with new player feedback, performance metrics, and league regulation changes.
We consider multiple factors including age, height, weight, skill level, and league requirements. Our recommendations align with official standards from USA Baseball bat regulations and NCAA BBCOR specifications.
Unlike generic charts that use simple age-to-length formulas, we analyze actual player performance data to identify optimal bat sizes for different player profiles. This data-driven approach helps players find bats that maximize both comfort and performance.
Download Our Bat Size Chart
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