How to select a legal bat in amateur baseball

Baseballs governing bodies have grown concerned over the explosive performance of composite bats in recent years. Pitchers are facing greater risk of severe injury from batted balls. So, groups from the National Collegiate Athletic Association down to Pony League set restrictions on which bats can be used. This crackdown forces manufacturers to produce composite bats which perform more like wood bats. Some sanctioning bodies enforce restrictions on bat length and length-to-weight ratio. Players must be select their bats carefully, particularly if they are purchasing expensive composite models.

Things You'll Need

  • Applicable bat regulations
  • Tape measure
  • Manufacturer's bat specifications
Show More

Instructions

  1. Determining Which Bats Are Legal

    • 1

      Understand the bat-testing procedures. Bat Exit Speed Ratio (BESR) used to be the primary measurement. BESR gauges the speed of the ball coming off the barrel of the bat. BESR has been replaced by Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution (BBCOR) testing, which more thoroughly gauges the speed of the ball coming off the barrel. Accelerated Break-In (ABI) testing is also a factor at the higher competitive levels . ABI determines whether a bat offers more pop after heavy usage. Such testing guards against bat doctoring.

    • 2

      Learn all the regulations and restrictions at your level of play. League rules may vary from tournament rules. Summer ball regulations may vary from high school regulations. Rules vary between national youth baseball associations. Rules that apply in 2011 may change for 2012. Players must thoroughly understand all restrictions before investing in a bat.

    • 3

      Comply with barrel diameter restrictions, which vary by age group and sanctioning bodies. Limitations typically vary from 2 1/4 inches to 2 5/8 and 2 3/4 inches. Use a tape measure to verify the diameter of any bat you want to use.

    • 4

      Comply with length-to-weight ratio restrictions. At the high school and college level, for instance, the greatest ratio allowed is minus-3. As Baseball America notes, "a 34-inch bat must weigh at least 31 ounces. Youth organizations have higher standards, up to minus-12 for some groups." Bat length/weight ratios are usually clearly marked on the bats.

    • 5

      Comply with bat length restrictions. For instance, in Little League play, bats can be no longer than 33 inches in the Majors Division and below. The limit is 34 inches in the Junior League division. The limit is 36 inches in the Senior League and Big League divisions. Use tape measure to double-check the length of your bats to make sure they are legal.

    • 6

      Stay abreast of changing developments. Sanctioning bodies monitor bat performance closely. As manufacturers roll out new models, players could see additional bat regulations at various levels. Pitcher safety will remain a hot topic in amateur baseball.