Type of Bats in Minor League Baseball

Minor League Baseball players use the same type of bats as those used by players in Major League Baseball, with the same physical specifications. There are equipment differences in the two professional levels, but they have to do with batting helmets and the source of the baseballs used.

  1. Composition

    • The majority of Minor League bats are made of northern white ash harvested specifically in Pennsylvania and New York from trees usually older than 50 years. White ash is the preferred wood for baseball bats due to its hardness, durability, strength, weight and feel. Maple bats are also used and have increased in popularity for two reasons: Barry Bond's used them in 2001 while hitting 73 home runs, and improved drying technology that makes them light enough to use. Rock or sugar maple bats are more expensive than white ash bats, but they are also stronger and said to last longer.

    Specifications

    • Many baseball bat specifications date from the early days of the sport. The maximum length of a bat, 42 inches, was established in 1869. In the 1890s, the maximum bat diameter was limited to 2.75 inches, and the rule was established that the end had to be rounded. Most bats in the early years were made of hickory, an extremely hard and heavy wood.

    Cost

    • Wooden bats range widely in cost, with most costing around $75 each when purchased individually. However, professional players are often offered bats at no cost to use as advertisement or to use as an endorsement. When teams do purchase bats, they often negotiate discounts.

    Size/Weight

    • Minor League players have their own preferences regarding the manufacturer, model, size and weight of the bats they use. Depending upon their level of minor league ball, they may or may not be able to purchase, obtain or use their preferred bat. Batting manufacturers, however, have a formula to suggest the bat weight dependent upon the player's height.