To determine the proper bat size for players, consider the following factors:

T-BALL BATS

Length: T-ball bats typically range from 24 to 28 inches. Most players should use a bat that is 25 or 26 inches long.

Weight: The weight of T-ball bats usually ranges from 13 oz to 18 oz, with most players using a bat that weighs 15 or 16 oz.

Age Consideration: For younger players starting off in T-ball, bats between 24 and 26 inches are recommended.

These guidelines will help ensure that players have the appropriate bat size for their age and skill level.

LITTLE LEAGUE BATS

Bat Length: Generally, the bat length for Little League players ranges from 26 to 32 inches, depending on the player's height and age.

Bat Weight: The weight of the bat should be comfortable for the player to swing. A common guideline is to choose a bat that is about 10 ounces lighter than the player's weight.

Barrel Diameter: For most Little League bats, the barrel diameter should not exceed 2 1/4 inches.

Age Consideration: Younger players typically use lighter and shorter bats, while older players can handle longer and heavier bats.

For specific recommendations, it's best to consult the Little League guidelines or a local coach.

COACH- PITCH BATS

Length: Typically ranges from 26 to 29 inches.

Weight: Generally, weighs between 13 to 18 ounces.

These sizes are designed for younger players, providing better control as they develop their skills.

Additionally, it's important to consider the player's height and weight when selecting a bat.

SENIOR LEAGUE BATS

Youth Big Barrel Bats, or Senior League baseball bats, are used by players who play in Youth Leagues that allow bats with barrels larger than 2 1/4 inches in diameter.

And for stronger players that are going to the next level.

Senior league bats are designed for players aged 13 to 16 years and are a transition between youth bats and BBCOR bats.

They typically range in size from 31 inches to 33 inches in length and weigh between 19 ounces to 25 ounces.

These bats have a larger barrel diameter compared to youth bats, making them suitable for experienced players who need more power in their swings.

BBCOR BATS

Barrel diameter of 2 5/8 inches.

Length to weight ratio (or "drop") of -3.

Length of the bat cannot exceed 36 inches.

Most adult BBCOR bats range from 31-34 inches, with a few 29 and 35 inch options.

BESR BATS

BESR bat sizes typically range from 25 to 34 inches in length, depending on the player's height and weight.

Here are some general guidelines:

Youth players (ages 8-12) generally use lighter bats, often around 25 to 32 inches.

Standard bats for older players usually fall between 32 and 34 inches.

The drop weight (in ounces) is also a factor; a smaller number indicates a heavier bat, which can affect swing weight and performance.

For the most accurate sizing, it's recommended to consult a bat size chart based on the player's specific height and weight.

HYBRID BATS

Hybrid bats are a combination of composite and alloy materials.

They typically have a composite handle attached to an aluminum barrel, which allows for a longer barrel than a traditional 100% alloy bat, increasing the "sweet spot" for better performance.

Size: Hybrid bats are designed to balance weight and length, making them suitable for various players, especially young players.

Weight: The weight of a hybrid bat is determined by its drop weight, which is the difference between the bat's length and weight.

Performance: They offer a combination of durability and performance, making them a popular choice among players.

For specific sizes, it's essential to measure the player's height and weight, as well as their swing weight, to find the right fit.

FASTPITCH SOFTBALL BATS

Softball fastpitch bats typically range from 28 to 34 inches in length.

The weight of the bat is measured in ounces, with drop weights indicated as negative numbers (e.g., a bat with a drop weight of -10 means it weighs 22 ounces).

Length: Generally, bats are 29-34 inches long, depending on the player's height and weight.

Weight: The weight of the bat affects its performance; lighter bats are easier to swing but offer less power, while heavier bats provide more power but may be harder to swing.

Drop: The drop is calculated by subtracting the bat's weight from its length, with higher drops (e.g., -10) being lighter and easier to swing.

For a more personalized fit, consider using a bat size calculator based on your height and weight.

Many fastpitch leagues require the ASA (Amateur Softball Association) stamp. To get the ASA stamp, fastpitch bats need to be tested and have the ball come off the bat no faster than 98 MPH.

They have now changed from ASA to USA Softball while also changing their stamp. Andersons 2021 line of fastpitch bats will have the new USA Softball stamp.

SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL BATS

Find the weight and size that fit you.

All slow pitch bats have a 2-inch barrel.

Slow pitch bats are 34 inches long.

Slow pitch bats range in weight from 26 to 30 ounces.

Slow pitch softball leagues include ASA, ISA, ISF, NSA, and USSSA.

WOODEN BASEBALL BATS

Wooden baseball bats are primarily used in professional baseball, particularly in Major League Baseball (MLB), where they are mandated by league rules.

MLB players use bats made from hardwoods like maple, birch, and ash, which are chosen for their durability and performance characteristics.

The use of wooden bats helps maintain the integrity and tradition of the game, ensuring a level playing field and preserving the sport's history.

Wooden bats are also popular in college and high school baseball, although they are less common than metal bats used in these leagues.

Overall, wooden bats are a defining feature of professional baseball, reflecting the sport's commitment to tradition and safety.

Wooden bats are baseball bats made from various types of wood, including Maple, Ash, Birch, and Bamboo.

These bats are known for their traditional feel and sound, making them popular among players.

They are often used for practice and can help players develop their swing and batting form.

The choice of wood affects the bat's weight, feel, and performance, with Maple being denser and heavier, while Ash is lighter and offers a balance of strength and forgiveness.

The sizes for wooden bats typically range from 25 inches to 34 inches in length, depending on the age of the player.

Here are some key points:

Length Range: Most wooden bats range from 25 inches to 34 inches.

Youth Bats: For younger players, bats can be as short as 25 inches.

Adult Bats: For older players, bats can be up to 34 inches or longer.

Weight Drops: The weight of the bat can vary, with common weight drops being -2 oz and -3 oz.

FUNJO BATS

Fungo bats aren’t designed to be used in gameplay.

They’re typically used by coaches during practice to hit ground balls and pop flies.

They have a thinner barrel than regulation bats and usually range between 17-24 inches in length.

The lighter weight of the bat allows for greater control when hitting grounders or fly balls, making it easier for coaches to get their players into proper fielding positions quickly.

Fungo bats are durable and cheaper than traditional bats.

They’re also easy to use for practice since they weigh less, which means they won’t tire out players’ arms as quickly during extended batting sessions.

The design also allows for more accurate ball placement, making it easier to practice specific drills – perfect for coaches wanting to get more reps in without wearing down their players.

TAKING CARE OF YOUR GEAR

The Best Way to Clean Baseball Bats and Batting Gloves

This includes baseball bats and gloves, which may be the most important things in your arsenal (other than THE BALL).

Having clean gear will help it last longer and make you feel more confident on game day.

To clean and maintain specialized equipment, you'll need to use the proper supplies and techniques.

These guides include tips for cleaning aluminum bats, wooden bats, fielding gloves and batting gloves.

Cleaning an Aluminum Baseball Bat

Mix a few drops of mild dish detergent into a large cup of warm water.

Rub the solution on the bat using a clean microfiber cloth.

Let the bat fully dry.

Remove remaining ball marks and stains by rubbing them for a few seconds with a hard-bristle toothbrush or a foam stain-removing sponge.

Be aware that rubbing for more than 10-15 seconds can leave small scratches.

How to Clean a Wooden Baseball Bat

Wet a soft cloth with rubbing alcohol.

Wipe the bat down with the cloth working from top to bottom.

Do this after each day's use.

If the bat has mold or rust marks, mix two tablespoons of baking soda with half a cup of warm water.

Use a microfiber cloth to thoroughly scrub the bat with the mixture.

Smooth out dings, scratches and other rough spots by rubbing them with another bat.

Store the bat knob-up in a cool, dry place.

How to Condition a Baseball Glove

Use a clean toothbrush to remove loose dirt, dust and residue.

Add a quarter-size amount of shaving cream or manufacturer-approved leather cleaner to a damp microfiber cloth.

Wipe the cleaner over the glove, remembering to get it into all the seams and crevices.

Buff off any remaining cleaner with a dry cloth and let it dry.

Apply an approved leather conditioner by massaging it in with a circular motion.

Best Way to Clean Batting Gloves

Shake the gloves or clap them against each other to remove loose dirt and debris.

Mix some warm water and a few drops of dish detergent in a small container.

Rub the mixture over the glove using a clean microfiber cloth.

Use a second cloth to soak up any excess moisture.

If the gloves are also dirty on the inside, turn them inside out and repeat steps 3 and 4.

Hang the gloves up away from direct sunlight to dry.

Apply a small amount of an approved leather cleaner or conditioner as you would for your fielding glove.