Marucci drops another CAT variant with the 2026 CATX Reckless, a single-piece alloy bat that replaces the standard CATX. They claim a new CNC machining process expands the sweet spot and their TFX endcap allows more barrel flex. Same AZR alloy as before, but now with what they're calling Multi-Variable Wall Design Plus. Available across BBCOR, USSSA, and USA in multiple drops.
Models Overview
The BBCOR drop 3 targets high school and college hitters wanting that classic one-piece alloy feel. USSSA drops 5, 8, and 10 cover the travel ball spectrum, with the drop 10 including a Junior Big Barrel option. USA models in drops 8 and 11 round out the youth lineup. All versions feature what Marucci describes as a slightly end-loaded design for more power.
Construction & Technology
Single-piece AZR alloy construction with Marucci's ring-free barrel design. The company says their Multi-Variable Wall Design Plus combines their existing wall design with new CNC machining for barrel expansion. TFX (True Flex) endcap replaces the previous version, supposedly softer to let the barrel flex more. Liquid-gel dampening remains in the knob, with additional dampening now in the endcap.
Performance Comparison
The 2025 CATX2 introduced liquid-gel in the endcap alongside the knob dampening. For 2026's Reckless, Marucci claims enhanced CNC machining and the new TFX endcap improve forgiveness. The slightly end-loaded design differentiates it from the balanced CATX2. Otherwise, it's the same AZR alloy and ring-free barrel technology with a new name and paint job.
Comparable Bats
The DeMarini Voodoo One offers similar single-piece alloy construction at the same price point. The Louisville Slugger Omaha brings AI-designed EVOKE alloy but swings heavier. The standard Marucci CATX2 provides the same AZR alloy in a more balanced swing weight for players who don't want the slight end-load.
The Bottom Line
The CATX Reckless represents incremental tweaks to Marucci's proven single-piece formula. Whether the new CNC process and TFX endcap deliver meaningful performance gains over the CATX2 remains questionable. For players wanting a slightly end-loaded alloy with Marucci's build quality, it's a solid option. Just don't expect revolutionary changes from the marketing speak.
