After 500 hits by 4 different fastpitch players, we think the 2022 Louisville Slugger LXT is a fantastic fastpitch bat. In fact, for 2022, we named it the overall best fastpitch bat 2022. We love its robust sizing, excellent semi-flexible feel, huge barrel, top-end exit speeds, and fantastic player feedback.
Models Overview
Our hitters loved the feel and sizing options of the 2022 Louisville Slugger LXT. As parents, we liked the durability and history of success---especially when compared to the Easton Ghost Advanced---which also hits the ball hard but has a lousy history of durability.
Construction & Technology
The 2021 Louisville Slugger LXT is a two-piece composite bat built with a big barrel, light swing, and several drop options. For 2020, they use a speed composite design that uses Slugger tech to make a big barrel and light swing. They also changed the end cap to help dial the swing weight with the barrel's changes. They also don't use a Lizard Skin grip for 2021, but Sluggers' new Comfort Grip has a standard grip that feels fine.
Performance Comparison
Compared to the 2021 LXT, the 2021 has an updated composite, a new end cap, and a different grip. That said, the bat is the same function it has had for the last several years. Expect a light swing, big barrel, and fantastic feel with top-end performance. If you can find considerable savings by buying the 2021 version (instead of the 2022), then we'd be all for it. We like the 2022 plenty, but the 2021has met the 1.20 BPF standard for several years.
Comparable Bats
Every bat wants to be like the LXT. DeMarini's CF, Mizuno's PWR CRBN, and Marucci's Echo Connect area are all trying to take away market share. The Easton Ghost Advanced has more of an end-load than the LXT (which is why some think it has better exit speeds). But, in the end, the top-end fastpitch market has all coalesced around the idea of a lighter swinging, big barrel fastpitch bat with a semi-flexible handle and a great feel. The 2021 LXT is the epitome of a good fastpitch bat.
Overall grade: B+
Overall grade: A
Overall grade: A-
