Composite Bats – Page 4 – All About Baseball Bats

Baseball Bats Go “Space Age”

Baseball Bats Go “Space Age” – How Composite Bats Work

When buying baseball bats, a lot of things need to be considered; the material of the bats being one of the most important. Over the years, wooden bats have fallen out of popularity because of their extensive weight and are now primarily limited to professional players. Alloy has been in use as the most common material for baseball bats for quite some time now. Different types of alloy formulations are used, many times combined together by other elements such as carbon, to form baseball bats that are more durable and lightweight than wooden bats.

In recent years the use of composite bats for baseball, especially for young players has risen dramatically because of the new composite technology. While composite bats have been in use for playing softball and slow-pitch for quite some time, their use in baseball is a recent development. The innovation in the composite bat technology has made it stronger and more durable, increasing its performance rate compared to alloy baseball bats.

How Composite Baseball Bats Work

Composite baseball bats combine together the alloy bat technology with some advanced formulation in order to create a high performing bat. The exterior of the composite bat uses the same alloy material in order to give it strength and power, but uses another wall composed of different graphite materials inside the alloy wall. This makes the composite bats tough and durable while making them lighter at the same time since the composite wall is not as heavy as alloy.

Advantages of Using Composite Bats

Composite baseball bats are usually better in performance than the usual alloy bats. Using a composite bat can be quite beneficial in many regards, especially when the composite bat is broken-in the right way. The key advantages of using a composite bat instead of an alloy baseball bat include:

Lower Swing Weight – This is the weight felt by the player when the baseball bat is swung around to play a shot. Swing weight is different from the actual weight of the baseball bat because of a slight change in the manufacturing technology that shifts the center of mass to a different position. Using a bit of smart scientific principles, the composite bats are able to reduce the swing weight of baseball bats, making it easier for players to use them without causing much exertion.

Trampoline Effect – At the time of the bat-ball collision during a baseball play, composite bats create a better trampoline effect, making the baseball jump off better. The barrel of the composite bats is usually less stiff, giving them slight flexibility. This lack of absolute stiffness in the barrel of the baseball bats allows the balls to bounce off with more energy compared to when they collide with more stiff barrels of alloy bats.

Higher Damping Rate – Composite bats have a higher damping rate compared to alloy bats, resulting in fewer vibrations along the bat handle when the ball hits off at the wrong spot. These vibrations can cause a stinging feeling in the hands of the players, causing them problems during the game. Since the bending stiffness in composite baseball bats is low, they damp the rate of vibrations caused in the bat. As a result, the players feel lesser or no stinging sensations when the ball is hit off the mark.

Here is a great selection of composite baseball bats for all levels of play and for all budgets.

Little League Baseball Emerges: Batter up Girls!

The concept of, “Does bat make the player or the player make the bat,” has recently gotten a new twist. Does anyone remember the Bad News Bears and the infamous actress who socked it her teammates in more ways than one? How about the Sand Lot where the “insult” of “You play like a girl,” was made?

Well times, they are a-changing and so are the players who are entering and playing on little league baseball fields. Thus, the idea of “you play like a girl,” is a good thing. These days, more and more girls are being welcomed onto little league fields by coaches and players. Don’t get me wrong; it has not been without controversy with regards to safety and gender issues, but since its inception in 1974, girls are on forefront of one of America’s most popular sports.

A Little Bit of Little League History

Girls were officially and formally permitted to play little league softball in 1974. Since Little League Baseball was founded in 1939, that leaves a big gap of time, but not in experience. Through the years, girls have played at every level, including making it to Little League World Series. Gone are the days when they had to hide their hair to play and pretend to be something they weren’t. Now they not only play like girls, they win like them too.

The Controversy

As long as Little League has been in existence, there been a variety of controversies and the admittance of girls into a seemingly boy’s “territorial sport,’ was no exception. But through the efforts of many and the endurance of a few, new rules were implemented so both boys and girls could coexist first in the sport and then on the same playing field.

A Happy Outcome

Girls rule—even on a baseball field. Whether it is with the use of sticks or a top of the line bat, girls continue to come up in little league baseball. They make the love of the game shine and can credit their successes to their own persistence, efforts, triumphs, and skills.

So, guys…get your bats ready, ‘cause the “new kids” are already waiting for you at the plate to show you how to play like a girl!

DeMarini Baseball Bats – How they Do it

DeMarini Baseball Bats

When it comes to selecting a baseball bat, there are several things that need to be considered. While many people do not think it is of much importance, the brands of baseball bats count for a lot when selecting one, especially if you are looking for high quality performance. Not every manufacturer can produce a baseball bat the right way, since it requires a lot of technical considerations in order to get optimal performance out of each bat.

Among all the baseball bat manufacturers, the DeMarini baseball bats rank among the best ones. DeMarini has been producing high-quality baseball bats and other merchandise related to the sport for quite some years, leading the market successfully. More and more coaches, players and their parents are switching to the use of DeMarini baseball bats for youths every day, due to their high durability and performance level. Undoubtedly, the DeMarini baseball bats are among the most popular and the most expensive bats that are available in the market today.

The History of DeMarini Bats

DeMarini bats are a product of DeMarini Sports, a company that manufactures several sporting goods. Back in 1989, the company was started by Ray DeMarini, a well-known softball player with his partner Michael Eggiman as a softball bat producing company. Eventually the company branched out in the production of baseball merchandise like gloves, producing some of the best baseball bats that are available in the market today.

Today, DeMarini Sports are known as the manufacturer of the most high quality adult baseball bats that provide even the most amateur players with a performance level like a pro player. While the DeMarini brand offers some of the most expensive high-end products, they also include affordable ones in their product lines that are easily affordable and give an excellent level of performance.

Slowpitch Softball Bats Design Differences

When baseball players decide to make the move to slowpitch softball, a lot of them think that you can use the same bats you used in high school. That is not the case. While baseball bats can realistically be used to play slowpitch softball, they aren’t made to hit the larger and softer ball. To get the most out of your swing, you need to swing the proper bat for the sport you play.

What is the difference between wooden bats for softball and baseball and why is it so important to use the right bat?

Barrel and Handle – One of the biggest differences between the wooden bats for softball or baseball is the barrel and handle. With wooden baseball bats, you are usually going to see a thicker handle that helps you grip better and propel your hands through the zone quicker. Getting the barrel of the bat through the zone quicker will give you more power. The handle on wooden softball bats is a lot thinner and this is something that the aluminum bat manufacturer Anderson has brought into their models. Some baseball players have had problems adjusting to the thinner handles on these bats, but the more you swing the models, the easier it will be for you to adjust and compensate.

Barrel Size – another difference between wooden softball and baseball bats is the barrel size. The barrel size for baseball players in high school and college is usually 2 5/8 inches. This gives you more meat on the bat to make contact on a regular basis. When it comes to playing softball, the barrel size you will often see is 2 ¼ inches. This is an adjustment that a lot of players struggle to adjust to. With a smaller barrel size, you have to be more accurate with your swing which is something that requires a bit on an adjustment in your swing.

What Not to Do – one thing you absolutely must avoid doing with your softball bat is hitting baseballs pitched overhand. Softball bats are not built to withstand the impact you get from baseballs and will crack rather quickly. The same can be said of fastpitch softball bats. These bats should not be used in slowpitch, as they will break. You can use slowpitch bats in fastpitch games, but they could be too difficult to swing for some.

Now you can see what makes slowpitch baseball bats special and when they are the right bat for your sport!

How The Baseball Feels – Tapping Into The Senses

Just for fun, have you ever wondered how the ball feels when it is hit by a bat? I had a recent conversation with a baseball and this is what it said: OUCH! But really, how the baseball “feels” depends on the player tapping into their senses and that’s what counts.

FEELING IT

For the player, the ball is a big part of the feeling of victory when they come up to bat. Making contact is everything. The way the bat and ball connect can mean a great hit or a miss. Readiness is a key to tapping into the sense of the ball and taking it to the extreme.

SEEING AND HEARING

For the player, this sensory combination becomes key to making it happen. A player becomes one with his bat and concentrates on seeing the speed and direction of the ball. It’s also hearing when the ball lands so when he takes off toward a possible victory all his senses are in tune.

TASTING AND SMELLING

An outsider who has never played a little league game may surmise that there is no use of these two senses in baseball.

She or he can smell and taste the victory as she swings her bat and runs the bases. It is a team effort and well worth the smell of sweat and the taste of accomplishing a goal. All players may not be all stars, but they can demonstrate how to use the senses for the love of the game.

Oh! And most balls prefer to be hit by a bat from www.cheapbats.com (at least the one we talked to).

No actual balls were hurt in the writing of this article.

Best BBCOR Bats – Three Great Bats Reviewed

By definition, BBCOR means baseball bat coefficient of restitution (COR). These bats are used mostly in high school and college baseball leagues and are made of aluminum. There are hundreds of BBCOR certified bats that will help you or your children “swing for the fences”. What are some of the best BBCOR bat options for you to look into?

Best BBCOR Bats

2012 Anderson Ignite

The Anderson Bat Company is one that is often forgotten or ignored in the bat manufacturing business. With this bat, users are getting a -3 oz. bat that is built to last a good while and produce hits at the same time. This bat is constructed using single wall technology with all metal alloy. It has a True Flex end cap and a taper flex contour with the weight of the bat being distributed better because it is closer to your hands. It has an ultra-thin handle, which allows you to get a firmer grip when swinging.

2013 Rip-It Prototype

One of the newer bat manufacturers on the scene today is also one of the most popular when it comes to their BBCOR bats. This bat was made of aluminum, R1 alloy to be exact, which is exclusive to the Rip-It brand. Its BBCOR barrel was made to have a larger sweet spot than traditional baseball bats and will help you get the ball farther than ever before. This model is one of the best BBCOR bats available today.

2012 Demarini Voodoo

When it comes to softball and baseball bats, Demarini is one of the most common names you will see at the ball fields. This model was made with a newer styled end cap and the Demarini exclusive, SC4 alloy. When they constructed the bat, they used taper ring technology that helps keep the weight closer to your body, which will allow you to swing for more power. When the bat is weighted more towards the end, your swing will lead to some power hits, but not as often as keeping the weight adjusted. It has a composite handle to go with the alloy barrel, which allows you to transfer the power through the ball.

Click here for more information on these and other best BBCOR bats.

Little League – Does the Baseball Bat Make the Player

Coach’s Corner | A personal perspective

Does the Baseball Bat Make the Little League Player?

This is a question that is often asked by parents and players alike as they enter into the world of playing with little leaguers. The answer is actually yes…and no. As a parent, I would have to say the player makes the difference and not the bat of choice. Yet, as a team mom, I have learned that through the years, it actually depends on how the player feels about him or herself and the love of the game.

One would have to consider many factors including what the player knows, what he wants to learn, and what she can already bring to the game. This is why what a player hits with can be as simple as a stick from back in the day or the number one bat on the market. The player is what makes the bat and the game come to life—even in the little leagues.

Does the Player Make the Bat?

Once a child shows interest in a game like little league baseball, the floodgates of knowledge open everywhere, in that every person seems to know all there is to know about the game. Rather than getting caught up in all the chaos, any young player (and the parents) should remember one thing: the object of the game is to HAVE FUN. Part of the fun involves the “tools” chosen by the parents and/or players to play the game. At times, it would seem that some parents make a bigger game—or show—out of choosing the ultimate, top-notch equipment for their “star” slugger.

However, I have to reiterate that even the equipment cannot make a player play the game, as some kids just want the exercise or fun without having to do the work. For example, my favorite line from kids over the years has been, “Put me in for my two innings so I can get taken out…”

The Other Side of Little League: Players and Bats Unite

Once their innings were up, they were happy enough, but to the parents who paid umpteen dollars for the “perfect baseball bat,” I often got a lot more than just grumbles. Through the swearing and the insults, I have learned that one should not expect high performance out of a child using a bat with the same description, but rather, just let the child play to his or her heart’s content and let the games begin.

As a player grabs the bat, and you see that big smile, even the price of the bat gets forgotten as he or she steps up to the plate and begins to swing.

Choosing the right Softball Bat for League Play

Choosing the right softball bat

Every athlete that has ever played the game of softball understands that there is a lot more to the game than simply hitting the ball with the bat. It requires a quality swing, proper form and excellent eye/hand coordination. This is the only way to achieve consistent hitting. Making that happen requires choosing the right softball bat. How can an individual choose the ideal bat that will have a dramatic positive impact on their game?

Selecting a bat that is too long, too short, is worn out, too lightweight or heavy, can all affect how well an athlete plays the game. The ideal bat will be the one that allows the player to increase the speed of their swing and hit, which will naturally improve their results.

Purchasing a new softball bat can be a real expense. Bats can range from $30 to well over $200. Many professional-grade composite bats are available, but these bats can cost over $400. Although it can be a significant outlay of money, a serious softball player should take the time to choose the right bat and consider the investment.

Sizing a Bat

Properly selecting the ideal size and weight of a bat for a player will require consideration of their height and weight. Additionally, it is important to consider the bat barrel’s size. The process is simple.

Start with the player’s weight and height. Look over the chart of available softball bats. Bat specifically designed for fast-pitch softball are manufactured in sizes that are generally one-quarter inch bigger in diameter than a softball bat designed for slow pitch. Typically, a standard slow pitch bat is 2-1/4” in diameter.

Choose the proper softball bat size based on the player’s specific weight and height. Usually, lightweight shorter players require a shorter bat. Overall, bat lengths typically range between 26” and 34” long.

The Best Material

Choosing the ideal softball bat often means selecting between available materials. Both fast pitch and soft pitch bats are crafted out of aluminum, mix metals and composites. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Aluminum tends to dent easily during cold weather, and composite bats are substantially higher in price than other materials.

Choosing the right softball bat is an easy process by selecting the right diameter and length based on the player’s weight and height. Making the right choice can substantially improve the batting results of any player.

The Right Bat Gets Better Little League Results

Yet, is a natural tendency for any Little League athlete to choose the heaviest bat in the pile to take to the batter’s box. However, a light bat is much simpler to control, which is often contrary to popular thinking. Professionals players often use a lighter bat because it is far easier to hit the ball farther and harder because the bat can be swung much faster.

The popularity of light bats has grown in recent years. Many sports bodies review the use of bats at all levels of play including high school, and the NCAA. They have incorporated rules prohibiting using bats that are too light. The reason for this is that any strong player could hit the ball so hard with a light bat, that they put college level infielder players at risk.

However, at the Little League level, playing with a light bat is considered a safe solution for players at nearly any level. Ideally, a lightweight bat for a Little League player allows him or her to produce the proper technique when swinging.

Contrary to popular belief, purchasing a bat that the young athlete will “grow into” simply does not produce the best results. Bats that are too heavy tend to help the Little League athlete develop bad habits, improper technique and can discourage participation. Whenever selecting the proper bat, always elect to choose the lighter one, especially at the Little League level.

The Materials

For as long as the game has been around, so have bats made out of wood. However, they tend to be heavy, are far less durable, and produce much less “pop” then what can be achieved through aluminum bats. Wooden bats should be left to the professionals and college players.

The most common bats used in Little League are those that are fabricated out of aircraft-grade aluminum. Through advanced technology, bats are now able to be produced with walls that are much thinner and lighter in weight. Typically, expensive aluminum bats are built with stronger alloys to increase their durability and strength to produce a lightweight thin wall.

The more durability and strength in a Little League bat will minimize the potential for dents, especially during cold weather. Parents can expect to spend anywhere from thirty to hundreds of dollars for the right Little League bat.

Remember, the right bat gets better little league results!

Types of Baseball Bats for Adult League Play – The Basics

As more men and women become interested in joining adult league baseball teams, they often find themselves in need of purchasing the best baseball bat for their swing. However, because of all the available choices, exactly which types of baseball bats serve the player best? There are a myriad of choices and the answer can be confusing unless you know more about what is available.

So, let’s start with the basics of narrowing the choices for adult baseball bats.

Single Piece vs. Two-Piece Baseball Bats

Baseball bat manufacturers craft bats in a single piece and in two pieces that are bonded together. Bats that are made of a single piece have the same material in the overall design. The significant advantage to this type of design is that it provides a stiffer, stronger bat that only produces minimal flexibility. This is the ideal solution for any batter that does best with a quality stiff bat for hitting.

Alternatively, baseball bats that are manufactured as two individual pieces are held together in a bonding process. The barrel is separate from the handle. However, when bonded, they create a strategic point of contact that has the natural ability to produce a trampoline effect when the ball is hit. It also produces significantly less vibration because it is more flexible than a one-piece bat.

Composite vs. Alloy or Hybrids

Baseball bats that are composite are often two piece and manufactured using a mixture of fiberglass, graphite, carbon fiber, and at times Kevlar. Alternatively, bats manufactured from alloys are typically a one-piece design that uses either just aluminum or aluminum and other alloys to create a stronger unit. These types of alloy bats are thinner and extremely durable along with being highly responsive – a tradeoff for less vibration control.

However, it is important to understand that some adult leagues are banning bats that are manufactured using a composite barrel. This is due to the carbon fiber weave that produces a hotter response than many leagues allow. It is important to check the rules of the league before making the purchase of a bat with a composite barrel.

Using a hybrid composite baseball bat offers the best of both worlds between aluminum alloys and a composite barrel. It is typically a two-piece design that offers durability and flexibility.

There are players that still prefer wood baseball bats specifically designed for adults. They’re usually crafted out of composite wood, bamboo, maple or ash.

Tip: Before making the choice of which bat to purchase it is important to understand the bat’s BESR (Ball Exit Speed Ratio). This criteria indicates the exit speed of the ball combined with the pitch and the swing and is a factor in whether or not a baseball bat is legal for use.

So what is the best baseball bat for you? Leave us a comment on this blog and we will be happy to answer questions to help you determine the right bat based on your league, size and experience.

Coaching Tips: A Philosophy of Coaching Little League – Teaching Life Skills

There is a basic coaching philosophy for working with Little League athletes that’s not much different from being a coach at a higher level of education. The coach or coaches on the team act as a role model to every player.

Not only is the Little League athlete going to look to their coach for instruction and guidance, but they are constantly listening and watching their every move. Kids are always seeking out ways to understand how the coach acts and react to every type of situation, especially the stressful ones.

For a young, impressionable Little League athlete, his or her coach can be a highly influential individual in their young life. Many an athlete, as they grow, look back and realize that a significant portion of their ongoing success in daily life, not just sports, is directly attributed to a great coach.

While it is important to teach effective baseball techniques to every Little League player that enhances their abilities to hit, catch or fielding a ground ball, there is much more to coaching. Each child also needs to learn skills like teamwork, work ethic, perseverance and how to maintain a positive attitude. These enhanced skills will help them on the baseball field, and later on in nearly every aspect of their life.

More than Just This Year

That’s why it is so important for the coach to understand that his or her job on the team will produce results not just for this year, but in many years to come. The skills the child develops during a successful or challenging season can help them refine their life skills on and off the field. Success at the Little League level is not just about winning the game, but about understanding how life works.

A great coach will have the ability to keep young players interested in participating in all types of sports, year after year. It’s up to the coach to think about exactly how he or she wants to be viewed by the Little League players and their parents. It takes effort, thought and hard work to become a successful and inspiring coach.

It also takes a high level of patience, positive thinking, understanding every aspect of the game and getting to know what each player has to offer. When young players understand that you care for the game, and that their coach cares for the team even more, they can come to understand what team play and caring means outside of the sport.

So maybe coaching Little League is teaching life skills and love of the game!

Picking out the Perfect Softball Bat

Every softball player understands the main purpose of a quality softball bat – to safely reach first base. While swinging a bat might seem second nature to most athletes, picking out the perfect softball bat is an involved process. With recent advancements in technology, and the craftsmanship of using different materials and designs, the player has a lot of variety to select from.

There are bats made specifically to increase efficiency, along with bat speed. Most of these are made out of materials built for durability. Likely, it will be the athlete’s personal preference that will be the main component when reaching a decision. However, there are outside factors that can also play a part.

Making the Selection

Of the huge number of softball bats available, it is easy to spend far more than what has been budgeted. Softball bats are sold in a variety of price ranges from $20 or more, and well up into the hundreds of dollars for a single bat. Likely, the athlete will need to restrict their options in an effort to make the selection process easier.

The length of the bat that is ideal for the athlete is typically determined by their weight and height. Online websites usually offer a weight and height chart along with the suggested lengths for bats.

The player will need to make a few decisions, including the type of material used to manufacture the bat. They are offered in wood, composites of titanium/graphite, and aluminum. Aluminum bats tend to be significantly lighter than those manufactured out of wood. Traditionally, aluminum tends to be the most popular choice, probably based on its price.

Analyzing the Player’s Skills

Every athlete is different. Because of that, they will need to analyze exactly how they swing the bat. If they are a heavy hitter, swing for the fences, or involved in a fast pitch softball league, then a wider barrel will likely produce more quality results. However, if the athlete is interested more in generating single or double hits, then using a light bat of a standard diameter typically produces the desirable results.

The specific handle on the bat also plays a key factor in the decision process. Those that are crafted with a cushioned or rubber grip will usually reduce the amount of impact when the bat connects with the ball. Thin handle bats with leather grips tend to absorb less shock.

Picking out the perfect softball bat is a simple process of using the chart pictured, analyzing the athlete’s skills, and choosing one that has the perfect grip.

Have questions? Give us a shout on this blog and we will be happy to help!