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

The majority of the 2011 bats have hit the market. Although there hasn’t been a lot of change from the 2010 models, there has been some change. More detailed information will be posted in the reviews for each manufacturer, and in My Baseball Bat Recommendations will provide my recommendations in each category. Take a look at the listings on the right side to check them out. Here are the 2011 baseball bats:

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 EASTON BASEBALL BATS

I have to hand it to Easton. The NCAA bans composite bats in college baseball, so what does Easton do? The re-adjust their Stealth Speed, 100 % composite bat, and get it approved! It is the first composite bat that is approved for use in the upcoming 2010 NCAA season. If I’m ever indicted for murder my first choice for someone to represent me is Easton. These guys will do anything to sell a bat. But after this news it looks like their remaining 2011 bats are a repeat of the 2010 models. You can pre-order the bats now but they do not go on sale until April 3. Oh yeah, I’m not crazy about the look of the 2011 Easton line-up. It’s a sophomoric look that makes the bats look cheap.

Easton Stealth Speed II BSS1, BSS2 and BSS3

Let’s start with the BSS1 and BSS2. These are identical to the 2010 Easton Speed bats. They are 100% composite, two-piece bat with a slightly end-loaded design (MOI of 80). The difference between the BSS1 and BSS2 is the handle flex. The BSS1 has a flex handle (75) and the BSS2 a stiff handle (95). The BSS3 is Easton’s answer to the NCAA’s composite bat ban. They most likely re-layered the composite material in a manner where it does not break in any farther. The NCAA’s concern was that the BESR rating for a new composite bat crossed the line once it broke in a month or so later. This apparently solves the problem. Like the other Speed II’s it is a 100 composite two-piece bat with a MOI of 80. It is only available in a 33” model and there is no reason to purchase the BSS3 unless you’re in college. The BSS1/2 have white grips while the BSS3 has a black grip. This was probably done to distinguish the one approved for college play. They all retail for $399 for the Adult -3 model.

Easton Surge XL

Say hello to the SV12. The Surge is the SV12 with a different label and color. It’s a two-piece bat with a composite handle, Easton’s V12 alloy barrel, and a balanced design (MOI of 70). I’ve only seen the stiff handle version, but I’m assuming there will be a flex handle version also. The Adult -3 model retails for $299, the same as the SV12 last year.

Easton Rival XL

The Rival is identical to the 2010 V12. A 100% alloy bat with a stiff handle and low swing weight (MOI) of 60. I’ve only seen the Senior model at the present time. I’d guess the Adult -3 will retail for $199, as the 2010 V12 did.

2011 Demarini Baseball Bats

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Demarini’s line-up has been popular over the last several years and they’ve decided not to mess with it for the 2011 model year. They’re sticking to their bread and butter, two-piece, flex handle bats with their “half and half” technology. The only change being the “rotation index”. These are markings on the handle to help you grip the bat in a different spot and supposedly prolong bat life. Here’s a look at their 2011 bats:

CF4

The CF4 is a two-piece, double wall, 100% composite bat with a flex handle and extremely low swing weight (MOI). It is made with Demarini’s top tier composite, pitch black and is identical to the 2010 model. They say they added more silver trace technology, but they made the same claim last year. It’s made with Demarini’s pitch black plus composite, half and half technology and “hub” end cap. The CF4 is very popular but some do not like the extremely low swing weight. The Adult -3 retails for $399.99 putting it in the high end composite category. If you like this bat you can save a few dollars by finding the gold 2010 model.

Vendetta C6

The C6 is a two-piece, single wall, 100% composite bat with a flex handle and balanced design. It is made with Demarini’s second tier composite material, C6 and, hence, is their second tier composite bat. As the others, it is identical to the 2010 model. The Adult -3 retails for $299.99 putting it in line with the other second tier composite bats.

Voodoo Black

The Voodoo Black is a two-piece, single wall hybrid baseball bat with a flex handle and balanced design. The handle is made with Demarini’s pitch black composite material and the barrel with their SC4 alloy. It is Demarini’s top tier hybrid bat, and is identical to the 2010 Voodoo (except for a new knob). The Adult -3 retails for $299.99 putting it in line with the other top tier hybrid bats. Same story here, if you like this bat find the 2010 model and save a few dollars.

Vendetta

The Vendetta is a two-piece, single wall hybrid bat with a balanced design and flex handle. It has Demarini’s C6 composite handle, with the rail technology, and a SC4 alloy barrel. The Adult -3 model retails for $249.99. You’re essentially paying an additional $50 over the Vexxum to have the rails technology in the handle.

Vexxum

The old standby Vexxum is a two-piece, hybrid bat with a balanced design and flex handle. It has Demarini’s C6 composite handle and a SC4 alloy barrel. 100% alloy bat with a flex handle and balanced design. The Adult -3 retails for $199.99. A solid low cost bat.

M2M

The M2M is a two-piece, 100% alloy bat with a stiff (that’s right, I said stiff and Demarini in the same sentence) handle, end-loaded (you read it right) design. It is made with Demarini’s SC4 alloy. This is Demarini’s answer to the stiff handle Louisville stands by and Easton has integrated into their line-up. It retails on the high end, $249.99 for the Adult -3 model and is identical to the 2010 model.

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 about Rawling’s 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?

2011 Louisville Baseball Bats

Louisville has made some minor changes to their alloy for the 2011 model year. They’ve replaced their long standing ST+20 alloy with their new AC21 Scandium alloy. They claim it’s stronger and offers a better bond with a composite handle. Since it’s only available on their hybrid models I’d say that’s the only reason they made the change. Here are the 2011 Louisville bats:

Triton

Let’s all be thankful they’ve changed the color of the 2011 Triton. It’s the same 3-piece bat made from Louisville’s 3X composite material that is “bonded into a 1-piece bat” via their bubble transition zone. 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 2010 model on the discount rack (if you can stomach the gold and blue design). Not bad for the exact same bat.

TPX Dynasty

This is Louisville’s second tier composite bat. It’s been around for awhile in a variety of names; Catalyst, Omaha Comp. It’s still a one-piece, stiff handle bat with a balanced design made with their 7C composite. The news is that they’ve price lower this year. I saw the Adult -3 model listed at $207.99 which is a fantastic price. This is a very good choice for those who want a composite bat but don’t want to break the bank. .

H2

It’s a two-piece bat with a stiff handle and balanced design. The handle is made from their 3x composite and the barrel from their new AC21 alloy. Otherwise it’s the same as the 2010 and 2009 models. The two pieces are bonded together making it appear like a one-piece bat. The Adult -3 model retail price stays at $299.99 for 2011. You may remember this bat was introduced in 2009 with a retail price of $369! It didn’t take Louisville long to figure out it was overpriced.

Exogrid 2

Louisville’s best selling bat is back for a fifth year. There is a slight change for 2011 as they have changed the alloy to their new AC21. The really big news is Rawlings release of their own Exogrid in 2011 (see Rawlings reviews). It will be interesting to see if Louisville loses some sales because of this. Unfortunately the retail price remains $369.99 for the Adult -3 model. For only $30 more you can own a 100% composite bat, or for $70 less a different hybrid bat with similar performance.

Omaha

No it’s not the energizer bunny, its Louisville Omaha and it’s still going. It’s the same bat they’ve been making for the last ten years, with some new paint. It’s a one-piece, 100% alloy bat with a stiff handle, a balanced design and the same ST-20 alloy. They did not make this bat with their new alloy, which makes it clear the new alloy is only intended to help the bonding on their hybrid bats. Amazingly, they have increased the price to $229 for the Adult -3 model. It was priced at $199 last year. It’s very odd that the price would go up on a very old design, not the smartest of moves.

2011 MIKEN BASEBALL BATS

Maybe being a freak is not such a good idea after all? Miken has dumped their Freak name after only a single year, clearly not a good sign. It’s looking like their new line-up is a rehash of the Freak line. They seem to have the same material, R900 carbon fiber and MPa7 resin. We’ll need to investigate and post the findings when they’re known. Miken, a leader in softball bats’ just can’t find the sweet spot in baseball. It looks like the 2011 model year will be no different.

MV3 BBMV3C

One-piece, 100% composite bat with a stiff handle (haven’t yet seen an additional flex handle version like they had last year) and intermediate swing weight. They do not state whether this is a single or multi-wall design. The Freak was multi-wall which makes me believe the MV3 is as well. Certainly not a good idea when most prefer a single wall design. The Adult -3 model retails for $399 making this bat the top of their line. If Miken wants to dent the baseball market they have got to have a competitive price. At this price I’m going with a proven commodity.

MV3 BBMV3H Hybrid

It’s a two-piece, multi-wall bat with a flex handle and intermediate swing weight. Like the Louisville H2 the composite handle and alloy barrel are fused together to make the bat appear to be one-piece. Again, this seems to be a facelift of the Freak hybrid. The Adult -3 model retails for $299 putting it in line with the other high end hybrid bats. Again, not the best way to get Miken bats in the hand of players and I recommend going elsewhere.

2011 Nike Baseball Bats

There is absolutely nothing new from Nike in 2011. Here what they have to offer:

Aero CX2

It’s the exact same bat as the 2009 and 2010 models. The CX2 is two-piece, 100% composite multi-wall bat with a flex handle and a balanced design. The design is similar to the Demarini CF4. If you like this bat you can save a bundle by purchasing the 2010 model which I’ve seen for $250. The 2011 Adult -3 model retails for $399.99.

Aero Fuse

It’s a two-piece, single wall hybrid bat with a flex handle and balanced design. It’s the same bat as the 2010 Aero Fuse model. The composite handle is made from the same material as the Aero CX2. The barrel is made with Nike’s Zr91 alloy.  The Adult -3 model retails for $299.99.

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

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.

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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

2011 Louisville Baseball Bat Review:

Louisville has a long and respected history in the baseball bat industry, but they’ve falling behind in the composite and hybrid categories. They’re entries into these categories, now 3 years old, have not received a positive response. They are seldom seen at the high school or college level (when composite bats were legal in the NCAA). For 2011 they’ve only made some minor changes. This is extremely disappointing from what most consider the holy grail of baseball bat manufacturers. Louisville must go back to the drawing board in 2012 and come out with a brand new high end composite and hybrid design. The “bonded together to a one piece bat” claim has fallen on deaf ears. They must come out with a true two-piece design for their hybrid and either a true two-piece for their composite or a true one piece bat and stop the bull. Don’t forget to visit My Baseball Bat Recommendations for my choices in each category.

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 2011 Triton is the exact same bat as the 2010 model, with the exception of a better paint job. I’ve only seen the 2011 Triton in a Senior or Youth model, nothing in the Adult -3. 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 it used in some youth games and it seems to hit well and has a great sound. You will rarely see it in a high school game. Even when composites were legal in the NCAA College teams using Louisville bats choose the Exogrid, Omaha or H2 (in that order) and not the Triton. 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 2010 Dynasty, 2009 Omaha Comp and 2008 Catalyst. Louisville has been playing musical chairs with the name of this bat and decided the old Dynasty name would make sense. I believe this bat is an excellent second tier composite bat choice for several 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. Third it’s a true one-piece bat! No claims of being bonded together to act like a one-piece bat. An excellent choice for those looking for a lower priced composite bat.

Louisville Hybrid Bats

• H2: There is a slight change to the 2011 H2 model. 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, and barrel has been changed to Louisville’s new AC21 alloy, replacing their long running ST+20 alloy. It has a balanced swing weight design. The new alloy was added because it bonds together better with the composite handle, not because it provides better pop. I’m guessing they had one too many returns of a bat that broke in half at the “bonding” point. The Adult -3 model retails for $299 as it did last year. It’s not one of my top choices in the hybrid category, but still a decent bat.

• Exogrid: Louisville’s best selling bat is back for a 5^th year. There is a slight change for 2011 as it too has changed to Louisville’s new AC21 alloy. The EXO has been Louisville’s best selling bat for the last few years and, quite honestly, has saved them from total disaster with the Triton and H2 debacles. Clearly their going to milk this golden goose for as long as possible because the Adult -3 continues to retail for an amazing $369. The really big news is Rawlings release of their own Exogrid in 2011 (see Rawlings reviews). It will be interesting to see if Louisville loses some sales because of this. 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 a 100% composite bat. 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 2010 model. It’s the same bat and will cost you a lot less money. It’s still a one piece, hybrid 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: No it’s not the energizer bunny, its Louisville Omaha and it’s still going. It’s the same bat they’ve been making for the last ten years, with some new paint. It’s a one-piece, 100% alloy bat with a stiff handle, a balanced design and the same ST-20 alloy. They did not make this bat with their new AC21 alloy, which makes it clear the new alloy is only intended to help the bonding on their hybrid bats. Amazingly, they have increased the price to $229 for the Adult -3 model. It was priced at $199 last year. It’s very odd that the price would go up on a very old design, not the smartest of moves. It’s a great choice for those who don’t want to break the bank. Many players on College teams with Louisville contracts prefer to use the Omaha instead of the Triton or H2.

Louisville makes quality bats but, as mentioned, they need to rethink their multi-piece design and marketing hype. 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, or come out with a one-piece design and tell me why it’s better. Stop with the “bonded to be a one-piece bat” nobody believes it and that is why sales are lagging.

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

In 2010 Miken has decided to FREAK out as their entire 2010 line-up carries the Freak brand name.

Here’s what they offer:

Miken Composite Bats

• Freak Flex & Stiff: 100% composite, one-piece, multi-wall bat with a stiff or flex handle and intermediate swing weight. Miken, like Easton, is wise to offer their top bat in both a stiff and flex handle design. Unfortunately, this bat is priced too high in my opinion. The Adult -3 model retails for $379 putting it in the Stealth/Synergy Speed category which is a proven commodity. This bat should be priced as s second tier composite bat and so I’d take a pass on the Freak.

Miken Hybrid Bats

• Freak HT: two-piece, multi-wall bat with a flex handle and intermediate swing weight. The composite handle and alloy barrel are fused together to make the bat appear to be one-piece. The Adult -3 model retails for $299 putting it in line with the other high end hybrid bats. My recommendation in the high end hybrid category is the Demarini Voodoo or Easton SV12 and to pass on the HT.

Miken has made a name for themselves in softball, but has had only limited success with youth baseball bats and next to none with big barrel bats. I can’t remember ever seeing a high school player using a Miken bat. In my opinion there no reason to purchase a Miken baseball bat.

Take a look at the My Baseball Bat Recommendations by Category section for my recommendations for each bat category.

Technorati Tags: Baseball Bat Reviews, composite baseball bat reviews, miken baseball bat review, miken heat, miken torch