Unbiased and comprehensive baseball bat reviews that cut through the clutter and hype. A must read for anyone who will purchase a baseball bat.

The Baseball Bat Reviews Blog is dedicated to providing you with quality information on baseball bats for the sole purpose of helping you make an informed decision. This site is run independently of any baseball bat manufacturer or retailer and prides itself in offering an independent non-biased opinion.

Purchasing a baseball bat can be an agonizing and expensive experience. I’ve learned the hard way over the last 13 years with good, bad and horrific experiences purchasing a bat. One day I came to the frightening realization of how much money I’d spent on baseball bats for my sons, and decided it was time to understand the industry and pass along the knowledge.

This site will help answer some of the confusing questions about baseball bats, including:

• The differences between composite and aluminum (alloy) material
• The differences between one and two-piece bats
• The differences between an end-loaded and balanced bat
• The differences between a flex and stiff handle bat
• The differences between the major manufacturer’s line-ups
• Diffusing the spin and hype the manufacturers throw at us, such as: “the same fibers as found in bullet proof vests” and “utilizes aerospace technology”

You can navigate through the site by clicking the links under the categories or recent posts tab on the right side of the page. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome. Enjoy!

Technorati Tags: baseball, Baseball Bat Reviews, bats, combat, composite, DeMarini, easton, louisville, nike, review

2011 COMBAT BASEBALL BATS

Combats first steps in 2010 have been backwards. They’re trying to recover from a poor 2011 model year by bringing back what created the buzz a few years ago in a new name and package.

Combat B3

It appears Combat has abandoned the B2 and its and is essentially bringing back the B1 as the B3.  The B2’s nanocomp and MAP technologies have disappeared, essentially making this bat very similiar if not identical to the B1. As of early March it only appears to be available in youth models. It has the same single wall, stiff handle balanced design.

2011 Rawlings Baseball Bats

If you can’t beat them, copy their design and steal their name! This seems to be Rawlings strategy for the 2011 model year. Their first 2011entry is a hybrid bat called the 5150 Exogrid. Yeah, that’s right the EXOGRID! The exact name and design of Louisville’s best selling bat for the last several 4 years. I don’t know if this will replace or compliment their 2010 5150 hybrid which, by the way, had the exact design as Louisville’s 2010 H2 hybrid bat.

When K2 (parent company Jarden) bought Rawlings in 2003, Rawlings did not have bat manufacturing facilities. K2 quickly purchased Worth and Miken which provided the manufacturing facilities. So someone was making Rawlings bats (including their somewhat popular Liquid Metal model) at the time of purchase. This begs the question was Louisville manufacturing their bats, and do they still have a manufacturing agreement? We do know Louisville had an interest in purchasing Rawlings prior to K2. I just would have assumed Rawlings bats were moved to the Miken/Worth manufacturing lines soon after Miken & Worth were acquired by K2.

Here’s what we know of Rawlings 2011 line-up:

2011 5150 Exogrid

It’s a single wall, two-piece hybrid bat with a stiff handle and balanced design. As mentioned the Exogrid name and design were taken directly from Louisville. The Adult -3 retails for $299.99, which is $70 less than the 2010 Louisville Exogrid. At least they didn’t copy Louisville’s price. The composite material is inserted into the bat handle just like Louisville’s Exogrid. It is a change from the 2010 Rawlings hybrid which had the composite handle bonded to the alloy bat (just like Louisville’s H2). Their main selling point is “Ph.D technology” which is supposed to reduce vibration. This essentially means nothing. It has the same 5150 alloy barrel as their 2010 5150 alloy and hybrid models. The real question is not about this bat, it’s will Louisville continue with their Exogrid in 2011 and what will the price be?

Technorati Tags: 2011 baseball bats, 2011 bats, 2011 combat, 2011 demarini, 2011 easton, 2011 louisville, Baseball Bat Reviews

The rules committee proposed the action in July and met again via conference call August 17 after hearing comments from the membership and manufacturers about the recommendation. After considerable discussion, the rules committee concluded that composite bats will not be allowed for the time being.

The committee’s main concern about composite bats is that they are susceptible to performance improvement above standards set by the NCAA, either through normal use or alterations to the bats.

While committee members are not convinced that simple compliance testing of specific bats will solve what they see to be a significant problem in the sport, the committee agreed with a suggestion from the NCAA Baseball Research Panel to seek additional testing to determine if it is feasible to allow composite bats in NCAA play this season.

The research panel met with baseball bat manufacturers August 12 in Indianapolis to explore whether composite bats could be used within NCAA guidelines and parameters.

During the 2009 Division I Baseball Championship, composite bats were selected for ball exit speed ratio (BESR) certification tests. Of the 25 bats tested, 20 failed the official BESR test for current NCAA performance levels. Because all bat designs must pass that test before mass production, the results indicated that the performance of such bats changed thereafter, most likely due to repeated, normal use or intentional alteration.

In the meantime, the NCAA plans to conduct additional testing that will provide the baseball rules committee another opportunity for review. Additionally, the committee is open to providing an opportunity for companies to prove that their bats would meet current NCAA standards regardless of use or tampering.

As for beyond the upcoming season, the baseball research panel is recommending that an Accelerated Break-In (ABI) process be added to the certification process under the new Ball-Bat Coefficient of Restitution (BBCOR) standard to help address the issue of improved performance and further the goal of having all bats in NCAA play remain under the NCAA limit through the life of the bat.

The BBCOR is a method designed to measure the performance of the bat. The ABI is designed to replicate repeated use or intentional alteration of the bat. This process has been used with some success in the certification process for softball bats.

Technorati Tags: banned, bats banned, college, composite banned, composite baseball bats banned, ncaa

The only significant changes have come from Rawlings with the introduction of their 5150 series. Louisville and Nike did not make ANY changes to their 2009 line-up other than color. Combat only added Adult versions of their old bats, Easton and Demarini only made minor adjustments to their 2009 line-up of bats. I’d say the 2010 model year provides the perfect opportunity to purchase a 2009 model at a great price.

Here’s my opinion on what they’re saying about the 2010 bats. You can also get in-depth reviews by clicking on the corresponding tabs on the right side of the site.

2010 DEMARINI BASEBALL BATS

Other than a new option in the composite category that makes a lot of sense, not much new with the 2010 Demarini bats. Their new “buss word” for the 2010 model year is Silver Trace technology which claims to be a unique blend of carbon combined with the Silver Trace technology. It claims to be a bonding agent that adds strength to maximize power transfer to the barrel. In my opinion this is just an attempt to make it appear something is new.

Demarini CF4 Gold Double Wall Composite

According to Demarini the new CF4 Gold is their most technologically advanced baseball bat. Unfortunately there doesn’t seem to be much change from the CF3. They claim to have changed the “Pitch Black” composite material in their CF3 to “Pitch Black Plus” by adding “Silver Trace” technology to the material. They say this adds 11% to the barrel length compared to the CF3. It also has a redesigned end cap called “The Hub” that noticeably concave and looks unique. The CF4 is a balanced bat like its predecessor the CF3. The Adult -3 model has a retail price of $399.99. I still think the CF3 is a viable option on the discount racks.

Demarini Vendetta C6 Composite

This is where Demarini is using their brain. The Vendetta C6 is Demarini’s first attempt at a second tier composite baseball bat. With the high cost of composite bats it’s critical for manufacturers to offer a second tier model. The all new Vendetta C6 accomplishes this task with a retail price of $299.99 for the Adult -3 model.

Demarini Vendetta SC4

The Vendetta SC4 is the same as the 2009 Vendetta model. It wasn’t my choice in the hybrid category last year, and I’m guessing it won’t be this year. It keeps the Rails Hybrid Handle and the SC4 Alloy barrel. It has a retail price of $249.95 for the Adult -3 model.

Demarini Voodoo Black

Featuring a “Pitch Black Plus” composite handle that features their Silver Trace Technology. The barrel is the same SC4 alloy as the Vendetta SC4 and Vexxum but retails for an additional $50 at $299 for the Adult -3 model.

Demarini Vexxum

The Vexxum had a late arrival for the 2010 model season making its arrival in June. It has the same SC4 alloy barrel as their other hybrid models and a C6 composite handle. The only difference between the Vexxum and the others is the C6 handle which is Demarini’s older composite material. With a retail price of $199 for the Adult -3 model this is hands down the best option for anyone looking for a lower priced hybrid bat.

2010 COMBAT BASEBALL BATS Do you believe in miracles… YES! Combat finally is offering their most popular bats, the B1 and B2, in Adult and Senior League models. What the heck took them so long???  They’re identical to their youth counterparts for the last few years so nothing new here other than the size. The news is in Combat’s introduction of a 100% alloy bat in 2010. Combat needs to make a name for themselves in high school and college baseball to become a true player in the industry, and offering all their bats in Adult and Senior League models is a giant leap forward.  They’ll finally get to push the B2 following its delayed introduction last year due to slow approval from Little League. We’ll see if the emphasis on Adult bats can get them some traction in 2010.

Combat B1 Big Barrel The B1 big barrel is identical to the B1 youth model that has been on the market for a few years. The smartest thing they did was offer this bat at a great retail price of $299.99 for the Adult -3 model. This was a very wise move by Combat as it might get some High School kids to use it, and get them some much needed visibility in this age group. It’s made from the same composite material, singlewall design and low swingweight as its youth brother. Even though it’s an older model this bat just might be the most intriguing entry of the 2010 season.

2010 Combat B2

The B2 is new for the 2010 model year. I’m assuming this model year includes the changes they had to make in the youth model last year to get it approved. They just couldn’t communicate the technology since it came out after the official communication for the bat. It still a single wall construction, low balanced swingweight bat but includes their “new” Map technology. This is supposed to “maximize” the trampoline effect. It also includes the same Nanocomp technology as the 2009 B2. It’s prices in the top tier of composite bats but that’s okay considering the B1 is priced at $100 less for the Adult -3 model.

2010 Combat Exit Combat has entered the alloy bat market with the Exit a 100% alloy bat. This bat’s claim to fame is the “PowerMetal” alloy which is supposed to have been “Developed For Nuclear, Defense and Military Applications’. This is certainly not a new claim in the baseball bat industry. Other than that, the bat claims to have a “unique look” and increased durability.  It’s priced correctly at $199 for the Adult - 3 model. We’ll be interested to test this bat out.

2010 EASTON BASEBALL BATS

Easton is offering the same products as last year with a new name twist and some minor modifications.  They’re putting their marketing efforts on the handle flex rating to market their baseball bats.  The composite bats are made of the same IMX technology as in 2009, the only difference being a stiff handle option for the Stealth two piece bat and a lower MOI for the two-piece Stealth. Last year it was called the Stealth IMX this year both the Stealth IMX and Synergy IMX are known as the Stealth Speed bats.  As with last year, Easton is the leader in communicating the handle flex and swingweight of their bats which I find very helpful for bat consumers.

Easton Stealth Speed 75

• IMX Composite
• 75 Handle Flex Rating
• VRS Rating 95
• Hitting Area Rating 100
• Swing Weight 80

Easton Stealth Speed 95

• IMX Composite
• 95 Handle Flex Rating
• VRS Rating 95
• Hitting Area Rating 100
• Swing Weight 80

Easton Synergy Speed 90

• IMX Composite
• 95 Handle Flex Rating
• VRS Rating 95
• Hitting Area Rating 100
• Swing Weight 80

Easton Ozone SV12 65

• IMX Composite Handle/Scandium Alloy Barrel
• 65 Handle Flex
• VRS Rating 90 Rating
• Hitting Area Rating 90
• Swing Weight 70

Easton V12

• IMX Composite Handle/Scandium Alloy Barrel
• 100 Handle Flex Rating
• VRS Rating 85
• Hitting Area Rating 90
• Swing Weight 60

2010 Louisville Baseball Bats

Louisville is focusing on a paint job in 2010. Basically, they are offering the same line-up as 2009 with color being the only difference. The only thing that can even be perceived as new was changing the name of the Omaha Comp to the Dynasty Comp but it’s the same bat. This is extremely disappointing from what most consider the holy grail of baseball bat manufacturers. On a positive note, they seem to have smelled the coffee on their pricing policy which I believe will provide a positive impact on their sales.

2010 TPX Triton

The 2010 Triton is the exact same bat as the 2009 model except the barrel is slightly smaller and a putrid blue/yellow color change that makes it look cheap. It’s still a 3-piece bat made from Louisville’s 3X composite material that is “bonded into a 1-piece bat” via their bubble transition zone. From my review last year you should all know how assinine I think this claim is. The retail price remains at $399.99 for the Adult -3 model. If you like this bat you’ll save about $100 by picking up the 2009 model on the discount rack. Not bad for basically the exact same bat in a decent color.

2010 TPX Dynasty Composite

Louisville has once again changed the name of their second tier composite bat without changing anything about the bat! Originally it was called the Catalyst, last year it was called the Omaha Comp and now the Dynasty Comp which itself resurrects an older Louisville bat name. It’s still a one piece bat made from their 7C composite. The good news is the price is even better this year. I saw the Adult -3 model listed at $207.99 which is a fantastic price. The Omaha Comp was my choice for second tier composite bats last year, and at this price, I’m sure it will be my choice in 2010.

2010 TPX H2

The TPX H2 is the exact same bat as in 2009 but with one major difference, they’ve adjusted the price to what a hybrid bat should be! Do you believe in miracles? It looks like the H2 has not been selling and Louisville was forced to lower the price to move this bat. For 2010 the Adult -3 model retails for $299.99 which is only $30 more than the 2009 model on the discount rack. This bat was listed for $369 in 2009 which was way too high.

2010 TPX Exogrid

The EXO continues to chug along. It’s been one of Louisville’s best selling bats and the 2010 model is identical to the 2008 and 2009 models. My opinion won’t change on this bat due to its high retail price, $369.99 for the Adult -3 model. I guess if the bat is selling at a high price keep the price high. As mentioned in my review last year, this is basically a 100% alloy bat and for an additional $30 I can get the 100% composite Triton. This is a no brainer to go with the Triton. Amazingly, the Exogrid is no priced $70 higher than the newer H2 which is a true hybrid. .

2010 TPX Omaha

The Omaha also chugs along. Same bat as last year priced at a reasonable $199.99 for the Adult -3 model. It was my choice last year for lower priced alloy bats. I’d assume it will stay there again this year.

2010 Anderson Baseball Bats

Anderson NanoTek XS

Anderson is going out on a limb by saying they’ve developed an alloy bat that is superior to a composite bat. They must believe it, or have lost their mind, because they’ve made the NanoTek the most expensive alloy bat in History! WOW, they’ve got some giant onions! I’d bet the ranch their President was a former politician.

They say the:

• “unprecedented strength of the revolutionary NanoTek Alloy allows us to build a bat with the thinnest wall in the game.
• “the strength of the NanoTek Alloy has helped create a Launch Pad sweet spot”
• “unlike composites that gradually rise to a short-lived maximum potential, the NanoTek XS has no break-in period, maintaining superior performance and delivering a solid feel throughout its long life”.

As I’ve stated, I have not had the chance to test the 2010 bats but I’m going out on my own limb here to say pigs would sooner fly than the NanoTek alloy being superior to composite. In my opinion they are mad to price an alloy bat at $399.99? I can’t wait to test this one out.

2010 Rawlings Baseball Bats

Rawlings has come out with a new line of baseball bats for 2010. Their Rush Comp/Gold Lite line has gone the way of the dinosaur in only one year. I’d like to take credit for this as I opined last year that Rawlings is the “Rodney Dangerfield of baseball bats”.

Rawlings has put all their eggs in the 5150 basket (wasn’t that a Van Halen album?) claiming 5150 composite and 5150 alloy material for their bats. It’s still early but they don’t seem to explain if the 5150 is a similar material in both their composite and alloy bats. If not, why use the same number/name?

They also have an interesting, additional cost, speed cap to screw on to Rawlings bats that measures your bat speed. Sounds interesting on the surface, but if I can’t attach it to another bat how can I compare it to another bat?

I’ll be very interested to test these bats.

Rawlings 5150 Composite

This bat is a multi-wall intermediate balance compared to last year’s Comp Lite which had a lower MOI (swing weight) and single wall design. The claim a superior feel that is achieved through a custom blend of carbon, fiberglass, and aramid fibers. Unfortunately it’s priced at $379.99 for the Adult -3 model which makes it unlikely to compete with the big boys.

Rawlings 5150 Hybrid

To me, this bat seems almost identical to the Louisville H2 which has been drastically reduced for 2010 due to low sales. As with the H2, the stiff composite handle is bonded to the alloy barrel. It replaces the Rush Gold Lite which had a two piece design more similar to Demarini’s. It contains Rawlings new 5150 Alloy which is supposed to be formulated for higher strength and increased flex. At 299.99 for the Adult -3 model they priced this bat correctly.

Rawlings 5150 Alloy

One piece stiff handle, 100% allow bat with their new 5150 alloy. Has a balanced design for a lower MOI (swing weight) and increased bat control. It seems to be priced against the Omaha with a retail price of $199.99 for the Adult -3 model which is wise.

2010 NIKE BASEBALL BATS There’s not a lot of news for the 2010 Nike bats. They have the same construction on their main bats with only a minor modification to their hybrid model.

Nike 2010 Aero CX2 Composite Nothing new here but the color, it’s the same model as last year. Same composite multi-wall, two piece bat with Nike’s “multi-layer cross react carbon”, “speedlink system”, “powerbelt technology” and “aero cap”. You can find last year’s model on the discount rack for a lot less money if you like this bat.

Nike 2010 Aero Fuse

The 2010 bat has a new alloy barrel (Zr91) from the 2009 model. Otherwise the bat construction is the same. 2-piece hybrid bat with the “speedlink system” and “aero cap”. Lower swingweight than the CX2 although they don’t specify the numbers.

Technorati Tags: 2010, anderson, baseball, bat, combat, composite, DeMarini, easton, louisville, nike, rawlings, Reviews

COMbat (the company) started in 1998 when they began manufacturing softball bats for other brand name companies. COMbat bats were born in the last few years when they decided to put out the same bats they make for other companies in their own name, including baseball bats.

The big news for 2010 is that COMbat finally is offering their most popular bats, the B1 and B2, in Adult and Senior League models. It’s hard to believe it took them so long to do this but at least the light bulb finally went on. Also in 2010, they’ll finally get to push the B2 which had a delayed introduction last year because it initially did not meet regulations.

Another change for 2010 is COMbat’s introduction of a 100% alloy bat. They’ve been exclusively focused on composite bats since their inception and this is a big move for the company.

COMbat needs to make a name for themselves in high school and college baseball to become a true player in the industry, and offering all their bats in Adult and Senior League models is a giant leap forward. We’ll see if the emphasis on big barrel bats can get them some traction in 2010.

Here’s the COMbat line-up for 2010:

COMbat Composite Bats

• COMbat B2: As stated, the 2009 B2 had a slow start because of approval issues. This is the same design as the “redesigned” version that was finally approved for the 2009 model year. It a one-piece, single wall bat with a stiff handle and a low swing weight. The difference between the B2 and B1 is that the B2 has COMbat’s “Variable Stiffness Technology is said to allow for lower barrel wall stiffness on both sides of the normal sweetspot, resulting in an enlarged sweet hitting area.” It also has their “Blended Fiber Technology, where Arimid fibers ( found in bullet proof vests ) is combine with carbon and glass fibers in varying proportions and precise angles to get more trampoline effect and absorb vibrations resulting in more energy transfer to the ball and greater distance.” Did you get all of that? My favorite is the bullet proof vest comment. My opinion is this doesn’t amount to much and that it’s not much different than the B1. The B2 Adult -3 model retails for $369 putting it just below the other top tier composite bats. There are better options in this category and price range.

• COMbat B1: This bat has had the same design for several years; the only news is the introduction of the big barrel models. It’s a one-piece, single wall bat with a stiff handle and low swing weight. The B1’s claim to fame began in the 2007 Little League World Series when the U.S. team won the championship game on a walk off home run off a B1 bat. Not that it wasn’t exciting and a plus for COMbat but is this really that big a deal? First if you’re playing in the LLWS championship game you’re probably a pretty good player. Second the fences in Williamsport are only 205 feet from home plate! In the world of 12U travel baseball this is a F7, F8, F9 or double. This is just a bunch of hype based on one dramatic home run and nothing else. I’m sure the folks at COMbat did their best to stoke this magical story. The truly intelligent move by COMbat was pricing the B1 as a second tier composite bat ($299 for the Adult -3 model). Why they didn’t do this last year when the B2 was introduced is anyone’s guess. The big barrel option and new price might get some Middle and High School players to use it and give them much needed exposure above the age of twelve. It’s one of my two recommendations for second tier composite bats.

COMbat Alloy Bats:

• COMbat Exit: COMbat goes metal with the introduction of their first 100% alloy bat, the Exit. It’s a one-piece, single wall bat with a stiff handle and balanced design. The bat has “PowerMetal” alloy which is supposed to have been “Developed for Nuclear, Defense and Military Applications’. Once again a bunch of hype but at least they’re being creative. Other than that, the bat claims to have a “unique look” and increased durability.  The Adult -3 model retails for $199 where it competes with the Louisville Omaha and Easton V12 alloy bats. My recommendation is to go with those options rather than the Exit.

Take a look at My Baseball Bat Recommendations by Category for my recommendations in each bat category and price range.

Technorati Tags: b1, Baseball Bat Reviews, combat, combat b2, combat baseball bats, combat virus, composite, composite baseball bat, composite wood baseball bat, da bomb

Here’s Easton’s 2010 line-up:

Easton Composite Bats

• Easton Stealth Speed 75 and 95: 100% composite, two-piece end-loaded bat. The Speed 75 is the flex handle version that is essentially identical to the 2009 Stealth IMX, except that it is slightly less end-loaded this year (swing weight rating of 80 versus 90 in 2009). The Speed 95 is the new stiff handle version of this Easton bat design. It is exactly the same as the Speed 75 except it has a stiff handle. The handle is stiffer than the Synergy Speed bat. Easton’s two-piece composite bats are by far the most popular composite bats on the market. Both the Stealth and Synergy Speed Adult -3 models retail for $399 a $20 increase from the 2009 models.

• Easton Synergy Speed 90: 100% composite, one-piece end-loaded bat (75 rating) with a stiff handle (90 rating). This bat is almost identical to the 2009 Easton Synergy IMX, except the swing weight (MOI) was ever so slightly lowered (from 80 to 75). Easton claims this design provides increased balance and bat control through the hitting zone versus the Stealth model. The Synergy Speed 90 is aimed directly at the heart of Louisville’s one-piece, stiff handle philosophy. This design is far less popular than the Stealth Speed/IMX design. If you like this bat you should look for the 2009 model. It’s priced around $259 or $140 less than the identical 2010 model.

Easton Hybrid Bats

• Easton SV12 65 and 90: Two-piece bat with a 100% composite handle, 100% alloy barrel and low swing weight rating of 70. The SV12 65 (yellow letters/handle) is identical to the 2009 model and has more handle flex than the Stealth Speed 75. The SV12 90 (red letters/handle) is a new stiff handle version of the SV12 bat. It has the same handle stiffness as the Synergy Speed 90. Once again Easton was wise to offer a stiff handle version of this bat. The stiff handle version was much more popular on teams swinging Easton bats in the 2009 College World Series than the flex handle model. I believe the stiff version will become a good seller for Easton. The Adult -3 models retail for $299 which is $50 less than last year’s price. If you like the flex handle option you can purchase the 2009 model (yellow barrel) for less money. It’s the same bat!

Easton Alloy Bats

• Easton V12: One-piece, 100% alloy bat with the stiffest handle (100) and lowest swingweight (60) of any Easton bat. A solid choice for anyone who prefers an alloy bat with a stiff handle. The Adult -3 model retails for $199 which is a reasonable price.

Again, By far Easton does the best job of communicating detailed information about their bats making it easy to find an Easton bat with the characteristics you desire. Very, very smart marketing by the Easton people. Take a look at the My Baseball Bat Recommendations section for my bat recommendations in each category.

]]> http://www.baseballbatreviewsblog.com/baseball-bat-reviews/easton-bat-reviews/feed http://www.baseballbatreviewsblog.com/baseball-bat-reviews/rawlings-baseball-bat-reviews http://www.baseballbatreviewsblog.com/baseball-bat-reviews/rawlings-baseball-bat-reviews#comments Sun, 05 Jul 2009 15:54:59 +0000 admin http://baseballbatreviews.ruqqa.com/rawlings-bats/baseball-bat-reviews-rawlings-baseball-bats

2010 Rawlings Baseball Bats

Rawlings has introduced a new line of baseball bats for 2010. Their Rush Comp/Gold Lite line lasted only one year before becoming extinct. I’d like to take credit for this as I stated last year that Rawlings is the “Rodney Dangerfield of baseball bats.” My guess is the extremely low swing weight of the Lite line turned off a lot of players because it exerted very little mass/inertia on the ball.

For 2010 Rawlings has put all their eggs into the 5150 basket, they must be huge Van Halen fans, as their entire line-up carries the 5150 name. Actually, the 5150 name seems to be a carried over from their parent company K2 (the ski company). K2 has a line of snowboards and bindings with the 5150 name. K2 also owns the Rawlings and Worth brands so I’m sure a lot of the technology is shared between their baseball bats.

They’ve addressed the mass issue by increasing the swing weight of the Composite 5150 and Hybrid 5150 compared to last years Lite models. They’re not end-loaded bats; they just don’t have as low a swing weight as the Lite line putting them in the intermediate swing weight range. They say this provides the “ultimate combination of bat speed, power, and control.” A few well known college teams, such as Virginia, Georgia Tech and Tulane swing Rawlings bats. My main problem with the 5150 technology is that Rawlings doesn’t explain why it’s superior to other technologies. All they talk about is finding the right bat based on a player’s actual performance and testing their bats with radar. How does this convince me 5150 bats are better than other bats? They also have an additional “Speedcap” that screws onto the end of 5150 bats to measure your bat speed. It sounds interesting on the surface, but it’s just comparing the different 5150 bats. This doesn’t help me compare Rawlings to Easton, Louisville or Demarini bats. In addition, why would I spend the money (I believe this thing costs $79) to compare only Rawlings bats? You’ve got to be kidding me!

I don’t see any reason to purchase a Rawlings bat as there are many other proven options available in the price range for their bats. If Rawlings wants to make any kind of progress in the baseball bat industry they need to be the low cost option in every category.

Here’s a breakdown of the Rawlings 2010 line-up:

Rawlings Composite Bats

· 5150 Composite: The 5150 Composite is a multi-wall bat with a stiff handle and a balanced design. It’s slightly more end-loaded than last year’s Comp Lite, which had a very low swing weight, but it’s still a balanced bat. Rawlings claims a superior feel achieved through a custom blend of carbon, fiberglass, and aramid fibers. In my opinion this bat should be in the lower cost composite category. If it were in this category it might actually sell. Unfortunately it’s priced as a high end composite bat with a retail price of $379.99 for the Adult -3 model. There is absolutely no reason to purchase this bat when you can buy an Easton, Louisville, Demarini or ComBat composite bat for the same money.

Rawlings Hybrid Bats

· 5150 Hybrid: The design of this bat is very similar to the Louisville H2. It’s a single wall, two-piece bat with a stiff handle and balanced design. As with the H2, the stiff composite handle is bonded to the alloy barrel making it appear to be a one-piece bat. It replaces the Rush Gold Lite that had a two piece design more similar to Demarini and Nike bats. It contains Rawlings new 5150 alloy which is supposed to be formulated for higher strength and increased flex. At a retail price of 299.99 for the Adult -3 model there are a lot of better options. If you love the design of this bat I’d recommend you go with the H2. The H2 has a similar design is in its second year of production and costs the same. Otherwise the Demarini Voodoo or Easton SV12 is my recommendation for a top end hybrid bat. And, they also cost the same as the 5150 Hybrid!

Rawlings Alloy Bats

· 5150 Alloy: It’s a single wall, one-piece, stiff handle bat with a balanced design. The swing weight for this bat is lower than the other 5150 models, making it similar to last year’s model. It includes their new 5150 alloy that isn’t explained to us in detail and retails for the same $199 (Adult -3 model). As with the other Rawlings’ models, the price for this bat is the same as the high end Easton, Louisville and Demarini models. You shouldn’t be surprised that I’d recommend those options over the 5150 alloy.

Technorati Tags: 5150, baseball, bat, comp, composite, lite, rawlings, Reviews, rush

Here are the 2010 Demarini Baseball Bat Reviews:

Demarini 100% Composite Bats

• Demarini CF4: According to Demarini the new CF4 Gold is their most technologically advanced baseball bat. Unfortunately there doesn’t seem to be much change from the CF3. The handle is now “Pitch Black Plus” instead of just “Pitch Black” composite material and the aforementioned “Silver Trace” technology to the barrel. They say this adds 11% to the barrel length compared to the CF3 (so about an inch). It also has a redesigned end cap called “The Hub” that has a noticeably concave design. It’s a two-piece double wall composite bat with a flex handle and a very low swing weight, although Demarini does not supply any numbers. The odd thing about the CF4 or CF3 is that most college players do not use it. In the 2009 College World Series teams that use Demarini bats, like Arizona State, have nobody swinging a CF4 or CF3. My guess is that these advanced players do not like the extremely light feel of the CF4/CF3 and are looking for a little more mass. The Adult -3 model has a retail price of $399.99. I still think the CF3 is a very viable option on the discount racks.

• Demarini Vendetta C6: This is where Demarini is using their brain. The Vendetta C6 is Demarini’s first attempt at a second tier composite baseball bat. With the high cost of composite bats it’s critical for manufacturers to offer a second tier model. The all new Vendetta C6 is a two-piece single wall bat with a flex handle, balanced design and Demarini’s second tier (C6) composite material. The Adult -3 model retails for $299 which puts it in the same price range as the other second tier composite bats. This is a solid option in this category.

Demarini Hybrid Bats

• Demarini Voodoo Black: Two-piece single wall bat with a flex handle that features “Pitch Black Plus” technology and a balanced design. The barrel is the same SC4 alloy as the Vendetta SC4 but it retails for an additional $50 at $299 for the Adult -3 model. This is by far Demarini’s most popular bat. As mentioned, teams like Arizona State that use Demarini bats overwhelmingly use the Voodoo. The entire Arizona State starting line-up used the Voodoo in the 2009 CWS. The Voodoo is my recommendation for high cost hybrid bats.

• Demarini Vendetta SC4: The Vendetta SC4 is the same as the 2009 Vendetta model. It’s a two-piece single wall bat with a flex handle, a balanced design and includes their “Rails Hybrid” technology. It has the same SC4 alloy barrel as the Voodoo. It has a retail price of $249 for the Adult -3 model. The only difference between this and the Voodoo is the inclusion of the Pitch Black plus and Silver Trace technology that’s on the Voodoo. A decent option for the low cost hybrid category.

• Demarini Vexxum: The Vexxum had a late arrival for the 2010 model season making its arrival in June. It has the same SC4 alloy barrel as their other hybrid models and a C6 composite handle. The only difference between the Vexxum and the others is the C6 handle which is Demarini’s older composite material. With a retail price of $199 for the Adult -3 model this is hands down the best option for anyone looking for a lower priced hybrid baseball bat.

Demarini Alloy Bats

• Demarini’s only entry in the 100% alloy segment is the Nitro. It’s a basic bat made from older material at a bargain basement price of $99 for the Adult -3 model.

Technorati Tags: Baseball Bat Reviews, cf4, DeMarini, demarini baseball bats, demarini cf3, demarini vendetta, demarini vexxum, demarini voodoo

The 2010 Nike bats are very similar to their 2009 models. The big news is that they’ve dropped their alloy model, the Torque, and are focusing exclusively on composite and hybrid models. Nike bats are very similar in design to Demarini bats which begs the question why consider a Nike bat when Demarini bats cost the same, receive better reviews and are much more popular? Therefore, if you love the design of Nike bats I’d recommend you take a hard look at the Demarini line-up.

Nike Composite Bats

2010 Aero Fuse CX2: Nothing new here but the color, it’s the same model as last year. It’s a balanced multi-wall, two piece bat with a flex handle and Nike’s “multi-layer cross react carbon”, “speedlink system”, “powerbelt technology” and “aero cap”. The Adult -3 model retails for $399. This bat has an extremely similar design to the Demarini CF4. The CF4 has a slightly longer barrel and hands down would be my recommendation over the CX2 if you love this design. If you must have the CX2 I’d recommend you find last year’s model on the discount rack for a lot less money.

Nike Hybrid Bats

2010 Aero Fuse: The change for 2010 is a new alloy barrel (Zr91) from the 2009 model, otherwise the bat construction is the same. It’s a balanced two-piece hybrid bat with a flex handle and the same “speedlink system” and “aero cap” as the CX2. The swingweight is slightly lower than the CX2 although they don’t specify the numbers. As with the CX2, the design for this bat is similar to its Demarini counterpart, the Voodoo. Again, my recommendation is to go with the Demarini if you like the design. The Voodoo is a proven, extremely popular, bat that retails for the same price ($299 for the Adult -3 model).

Technorati Tags: aero fuse, baseball, bat, cx2, DeMarini, Reviews, torque

Here’s the breakdown of the Louisville line-up:

Louisville Composite Bats

• TPX Triton – A 3-piece bat made with 100% composite material with Louisville’s stiff handle and a balanced design. The 2010 Triton is the exact same bat as the 2009 model except for a putrid blue/yellow color change that makes it look cheap. This bat has by far the largest barrel I’ve seen on a baseball bat. As I’ve stated in the past, it would be in Louisville’s best interest to either call this a multi-piece bat or stick to a true 1-piece design. Instead they continue to market it as a three-piece bat bonded together as a one-piece bat. I’ve hit with the Triton and seen high school kids use it in games and it seems to be a quality bat, but it just hasn’t caught fire. You will rarely see it in a high school games and almost never in College. Even on a College teams using Louisville bats the players choose the Exogrid, Omaha or H2 (in that order) and not the Triton. The retail price remains at $399.99 for the Adult -3 model. If you like this bat you’ll save about $100 by picking up the 2009 model on the discount rack (and have a bat that looks good). I recommend the Easton Speed for experienced players who want a 100% composite bat.

• TPX Dynasty Composite - This 100% 7C composite, one-piece bat has the Louisville stiff handle and a balanced design. This bat is the same bat as the 2009 Omaha Comp and 2008 Catalyst. Louisville seems to be playing musical chairs with the name of this bat and decided the old Dynasty name would make sense for 2010. I believe this bat is an excellent second tier composite bat choice for two reasons. First, it has a great price at $259 for the Adult -3 model. Second, it has a proven track record being a Catalyst/Omaha Comp.  An excellent choice for those looking for a lower priced composite bat.

Louisville Hybrid Bats:

• H2: The 2010 model is the exact same bat as in 2009 but with one major difference, they’ve adjusted the price to what a hybrid bat should be! Do you believe in miracles? It looks like the H2 did not sell well in 2009 and they were forced to price it correctly. It’s a two piece bat that bonds the pieces together to make the claim that it’s a one piece bat (we’ve already covered this). The 100% composite handle is Louisville’s stiffest which is saying something. The barrel is a 100% ST+20 alloy barrel and a balanced swing weight design. The Adult -3 model retails for $299 in 2010 $70 less than its retail price in 2009. You can also find the 2009 model for even less.

• Exogrid: The EXO continues to chug along! It’s been one of Louisville’s best selling bats and the 2010 model is identical to the 2008 and 2009 models. Clearly their going to milk this golden goose for as long as possible because it continues to retail for an amazing $369. In my opinion this bat is closer to a 100% alloy bat then a hybrid but with the carbon sleeve cut into the handle it’s in the hybrid category. I believe the price of this bat is way too high and I can’t recommend it when for an additional $30 I can get the 100% composite Triton. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a good bat but I just can’t recommend pulling the trigger at $369. If you love this bat find the 2008 or 2009 model. It’s the same bat and will cost you a lot less money. As mentioned no change to the design it’s still a one piece, 100% alloy bat with some metal cut out of the handle and replaced with composite material. It comes with Louisville’s stiff handle and a balanced design. As mentioned earlier, most players on College teams who use Louisville bats swing the Exogrid.

Louisville Alloy Bats

• TPX Omaha: The Omaha also continues to chug along. It’ a one -piece, 100% alloy bat with the Louisville stiff handle and a balanced design.. The 2010 is the same bat as the 2009 model and is priced at a reasonable $199.99 for the Adult -3 model. It’s a great choice for those who are not looking to break the bank to purchase a baseball bat. Many players on College teams with Louisville contracts prefer to use the Omaha instead of the Triton or H2.

• Omaha XT Stiff: This bat has apparently been out since last year but I’ve not seen it anywhere except on the Louisville website. I don’t know if it’s a hybrid or an alloy all Louisville says is it has ST+20 alloy and extra stiff composite reinforced transition. Seem odd to call this bat the Omaha Stiff when all Louisville bats are known for their stiff handles and the H2 has the stiffest handle of all.

Louisville makes quality bats but they need to decide if they’re going to jump into the multi-piece bat market or not. If you’re coming out with a multi-piece design tell me it’s a multi-piece design and why that makes sense. Don’t tell me it’s bonded to be a one piece bat.

Technorati Tags: Baseball Bat Reviews, Louisville Baseball Bat Reviews, Louisville Bats, louisville exogrid, louisville tpx h2, louisville triton