Opinions on which bat is more beneficial.

[homee3]

I coach my sons 10u team that plays in a league that allows big barrel bats. Nearly all of our kids use good quality big barrel bats (Stealth, TPX...) After reading some about the 2 1/4" combats and how hot they are, I am looking for opinions on what others think are the best for performance. Both in making contact and hittting the ball hard. Basically if your team could use any bat it wanted, what would you chose. Thanks for any opinions offered.

[benz99]

B2 without a doubt

[hitnpeas]

B1/B2 or Big Barrel Virus....

[skipper5]

For 12u, the main advantage of a big barrel bat is that the barrel looks humongous and, kids being kids, they like that.

The extra 3/8" diam. of a big barrel is negligible in terms of centering the ball, though this myth persists and, batters being batters, if they think a certain type of bat hits the ball better, that helps them at the plate.

Numerous reports about superior small barrel bats may shatter the myth.

[g-mac]

I'd have to go with the B1 or B2 2 1/4.:nod:

[Bolts-Baseball]

The most popular bats BY FAR (not even close) in Florida Travel-Ball (USSSA, AAU & Triple Crown) are:

1) ComBat B1 (-10, 2 1/4")
2) Rawlings Plasma Gold (-8, 2 3/4")

ComBat just came out with a B2, -8, 2 3/4" (Big barrel) version, that looks promising... It's Metallic Gray, so look out for it... We do see a few B2's but they haven't caught on yet...

The Rawlings Plasma Gold has been, unfortunately, discontinued... Rawlings contract with Liquid Metal ran out in April... They've just introduced the 5150 line and inital impressions are very favorable...

http://www.5150.rawlings.com

Sci-Fly in local action...

http://www.screencast.com/users/OBA_...2-8f728a15dbf1

[ralanprod]

My 10yo son used a big barrel Stealth during the fall season, and switched to the 2 1/4 B1 for this season.

Despite the smaller bat diameter, in bat to bat trials during BP, his hits go further using the B1.

We haven't used the B2, but I would expect at least the same results. One of the players on our team uses the Virus, but it doesn't seem to have the pop of the B1.

[homee3]

So you guys don't think the extra 1/2 inch in the big barrel bats is that much of an advantage? Is the combat b1 or b2 THAT much hotter than the TPX Catalyst? I have never seen the a combat in action so I have no idea but would really like to get someone that has opinion before I even think about spending $200 on a new bat.

[wogdoggy]

10 and under save your money ..dont spend huge money on a bat that he'll be out of in no time...if he makes it to HS get him a nice minus 3..until then go cheap,,,and put the extra money in a college fund..a good bat at 10 yrs old means diddly squat..

[hawkiirock]

we have always used the tpx catalyst but are gonna try the B1 out just to see which we like better. Really like the catalyst but want to check out the B1. Should be here this week but gonna be in florida so cant check it out til next week. Hoping to get a couple of swing flaws corrected first.

If you have time I will post back my opinion. I don't have anything to gain one way or otherSo you guys don't think the extra 1/2 inch in the big barrel bats is that much of an advantage? Is the combat b1 or b2 THAT much hotter than the TPX Catalyst? I have never seen the a combat in action so I have no idea but would really like to get someone that has opinion before I even think about spending $200 on a new bat.

[Bolts-Baseball]

My 10yo son used a big barrel Stealth during the fall season, and switched to the 2 1/4 B1 for this season.

Despite the smaller bat diameter, in bat to bat trials during BP, his hits go further using the B1. That's not a surprise... The Easton Stealth's are end-loaded, and play much heavier than their -9 drop weight...

[homee3]

wogdoggy, Not to sound disrespectful, but there is a pretty sizable difference in quality bats vs. cheap bats. If that weren't the case you wouldn't see nearly every "good" little league or travel team using quality bats. It does make a difference. I have read this arguement 1000 times on here and I agree a bat doesn't make a kid a better hitter but there is NO doubt a "better" quality bat give you more of advantage. BTW, I can spend $200 for a good bat that will last for a year and then sell it for $100 at the end of the year or I can buy a "cheap" bat for $50-80 and basically get nothing for it when he outgrows it. I think I would rather "spend" the extra $25 or so and get a "quality" bat.

[wogdoggy]

wogdoggy, Not to sound disrespectful, but there is a pretty sizable difference in quality bats vs. cheap bats. If that weren't the case you wouldn't see nearly every "good" little league or travel team using quality bats. It does make a difference. I have read this arguement 1000 times on here and I agree a bat doesn't make a kid a better batter but there is NO doubt a "better" quality bat give you more of advantage. BTW, I can spend $200 for a good bat that will last for a year and then sell it for $100 at the end of the year or I can buy a "cheap" bat for $50-80 and basically get nothing for it when he outgrows it. I think I would rather "spend" the extra $25 or so and get a "quality" bat.

whatever floats your boat but i'd be surpised you can get 100 bucks for a 200 dollar bat after you use it..I dont really think at age 10 its gonna matter..what an extra 10 feet MAYBE? half these kids cant even get the batspeed up enough to make the bat "work"..

[hawkiirock]

Used catalysts routinely run over 100 bucks. You can get them cheaper but many times 100 or more. Especially if it has a few months of returns leftwhatever floats your boat but i'd be surpised you can get 100 bucks for a 200 dollar bat after you use it..I dont really think at age 10 its gonna matter..what an extra 10 feet MAYBE? half these kids cant even get the batspeed up enough to make the bat "work"..

[wogdoggy]

Used catalysts routinely run over 100 bucks. You can get them cheaper but many times 100 or more. Especially if it has a few months of returns left

well there ya go! get 2...good luck checking for dents and end cap problems via pictures..what bat are you looking for? i was an overexuburant dad too..I have many bats what are you looking for?

i have anderson big barrel de marini f2's etc..

[hitnpeas]

well there ya go! get 2...good luck checking for dents and end cap problems via pictures..what bat are you looking for? i was an overexuburant dad too..I have many bats what are you looking for?

i have anderson big barrel de marini f2's etc..

Which anderson do you have? I may be interested....

[homee3]

wog, If you have a 29/17 combat b1 or b2 let me know, I might be interested. Just by looking on ebay, I don't think you would have much trouble getting $100 out of a used combat b2 in decent shape. If we were to purchase one it would be a "team" bat, where anyone on our team would use it. I really don't care to have this argument about the need for "quality" equipment. Just want opinions on the benefits of the 2 3/4 vs 2 1/4 "hotter" bats. Thanks.

[halfguard]

im in south fla and the most popular bats here BY FAR are the worth prodigy (-10). these bats have a lot of pop, but dent right away. the new black ones just came out and 2 kids on the team already have them. these bats basically become square after about 8-10 games*****right now my son has a catalyst 28/18 but the b1 has my interest....

[benz99]

So you guys don't think the extra 1/2 inch in the big barrel bats is that much of an advantage? Is the combat b1 or b2 THAT much hotter than the TPX Catalyst? I have never seen the a combat in action so I have no idea but would really like to get someone that has opinion before I even think about spending $200 on a new bat.
Iv'e heard the that some costco's have the B2 for 160-180. We don't have any catalyst's on our team but for sure the B2 is hot turns most ground balls into singles

[azmatsfan]

My son's travel coach recommended the -9 Techzilla by Anderson. My son has had good success with it. (He hit his first LL Majors HR last week.) Just curious what others thought of this model. Also, his big barrel is an Omaha TPX (-12?). The Techzilla is a little heavier and seems to have more pop. Is there any benefit for him to go back to the big barrel when he returns to travel ball in the Fall?

[starman]

We ran a Memorial Day Tournament and last year and I was in charge of the 10U division. We had 11 homeruns hit and 9 were off the Combat B1 and the other 2 were off Stealths. I bought my son a Combat and the whole loves it.

[mudvnine]

well there ya go! get 2...good luck checking for dents and end cap problems via pictures..what bat are you looking for? i was an overexuburant dad too..I have many bats what are you looking for?

i have anderson big barrel de marini f2's etc..

:D :D Be careful with that kind of reasoning. :D :D

We did the same thing always chasing the "next, best, and greatest" year in and year out . . . the only real immediate difference we saw was from a Rawlings Plasma Liquidmetals, but I'm not recommending that particular bat (that was back in 2005?).

Senior season, he picked up his buddies 3 year old Omaha ($150), tripled, and he never used his "expensive" bat again (don't remember what he was swinging that time) . . . go figure.

My youngest loves his Louisville Slugger TPX Omaha -5: SL87 Baseball Bat: $149.99 (http://www.justbats.com/product.view.aspx?p=7042) that we bought for this year as a transitional bat to a -3 next year . . . even two kids on his team who have expensive bats (EXOGRID and Stealth IMX) use his "cheapie". It's going to be interesting on what "we" settle on in a few months as what he'll use for is freshman season next year. :ooo: :waving

[KevinOK]

Wog has a point. I'd say you don't need to spend $300.00 to get as hot a bat as there is. The Combats can usually be had for around $200. Now compare a B1 to a $70 Worth sports store special and you will find there is a huge difference. Now compare the Combat to a 120-150 dollar higher end aluminum Louisville slugger and the difference narrows.

My son swings a B1(2 1/4), only because the B2 is not available in 28" yet nor is the big barrel B1 or B2. Previous to that he has swung Mikens Burns, Anderson Techzilla's, and Anderson Pyrotech's.

With the exception of one Anderson techzilla that had an elongated barrel(found out later talking with Anderson that it was a 30" cut down after taking some measurements and conversing over the phone), now that bat was hot beyond hot. My son was hitting the ball on average about 15 yards further than his previous techzilla or Miken. But of course the end cap shattered a few weeks later and Anderson replaced it with their standard size barrel length bat, and performance was back to standard techzilla performance.

As for 2 1/4 versus 2 3/4 or 2 5/8. I tend to lean saying the 2 1/4 will be better for the kid longer term as for development.

Another consideration is swing speed. The bigger the barrel the farther out the MOI.

As for pop between the 3 sizes, varies on brands, usually nothing radical, though I've seen a few Worth prodigy's that were very hot. Within a few days they are flat and ruined.

The trampoline effect on most of the bigger barrel bats likely on comes into play with swing speed most 10 and under kids can't generate.

Though like Wog was, I admit I am overly exuberant when keeping my son in nice bat(s), I have fun with it and sell them for some admitted loss. I only get to do this once so what and thankfully can afford it.

[gameth]

whatever floats your boat but i'd be surpised you can get 100 bucks for a 200 dollar bat after you use it..I dont really think at age 10 its gonna matter..what an extra 10 feet MAYBE? half these kids cant even get the batspeed up enough to make the bat "work"..

We are talking more then just 10 ft in the air. We are talking faster ball exit speeds that get grounders out of the infield faster also. 10ft in the air is nothing I agree, but line drives and grounders will make a difference if traveling faster.

It is an advantage in game and every kid on our travel team can get the bat speed. In house is obviously different but we are talking about a bat for kids that "can hit already."

I believe in, "its the indian not the arrow," but boy those fancy arrows can really shoot nice.

[gameth]

As far as composite bats go in senior size, I think the Omaha can't be beat dollar for dollar. I just saw them at closeoutbats for $50, cheapest I've seen in a store was $185.

Thats a 29/21 with 2 3/4" barrel

[wogdoggy]

We are talking more then just 10 ft in the air. We are talking faster ball exit speeds that get grounders out of the infield faster also. 10ft in the air is nothing I agree, but line drives and grounders will make a difference if traveling faster.

It is an advantage in game and every kid on our travel team can get the bat speed. In house is obviously different but we are talking about a bat for kids that "can hit already."

I believe in, "its the indian not the arrow," but boy those fancy arrows can really shoot nice.

at 10 years old i dont think very many can generate the bat speed to make the super bat much better..13 or 14 maybe..how fast can your 10 year olds swing..enough to make a 2 piece bat flex? imo very doubtful...

[padresfan2007]

I know you guys are talking about younger kids but before I started using wood I loved the stealth stiff bat 34/31. I remember hitting some bombs with that bat and the ball would just say off the bat on contact. Our team would just out hit the other teams not using the bat. Just my opinion and I love playing with wood now. Im 25 by the way so I know you guys are talking about a big age difference.

[HYP]

at 10 years old i dont think very many can generate the bat speed to make the super bat much better..13 or 14 maybe..how fast can your 10 year olds swing..enough to make a 2 piece bat flex? imo very doubtful...

Combat is not a 2 peice, it is a one peice composite.

I had an 11u travel team. 5 of those kids played on the same 11 year old All Star team together. They played 8 games in the All Stars and between the 5 players they had 11 HR. All of them used the DaBomb.

One of the teams they played. The coach didn't have the players swinging through the ball. He had them exploding to contact and stopping at contact. They hit a couple HR as well.

The Combat DaBomb B1 is what they all were using and no matter what anyone thinks. That bat has the most pop I have ever seen. You can check swing a ball out of the yard with it.

[wogdoggy]

Combat is not a 2 peice, it is a one peice composite.

I had an 11u travel team. 5 of those kids played on the same 11 year old All Star team together. They played 8 games in the All Stars and between the 5 players they had 11 HR. All of them used the DaBomb.

One of the teams they played. The coach didn't have the players swinging through the ball. He had them exploding to contact and stopping at contact. They hit a couple HR as well.

The Combat DaBomb B1 is what they all were using and no matter what anyone thinks. That bat has the most pop I have ever seen. You can check swing a ball out of the yard with it.

hyp im sure there are some dyno mite bats out there but quite frankly you are wasting money spending it on a 10 year old..thats my opinion,,if you got the cash and hate your money then by all means spend it on the lil guy..i just wish i had been a little more conservative spending money on 8-9 10- 11 -12 year old baseball..looking back the bats he used meant absoulutely nothing..

enjoy the moment indeedcause it comes and goes in an instant but be realistic as well..all i can say is spend the money on a camera..it will bring a priceless smile to your family's faces somewhere down the road..

[RodCarew]

hyp im sure there are some dyno mite bats out there but quite frankly you are wasting money spending it on a 10 year old..thats my opinion,,if you got the cash and hate your money then by all means spend it on the lil guy..i just wish i had been a little more conservative spending money on 8-9 10- 11 -12 year old baseball..looking back the bats he used meant absoulutely nothing..
enjoy the moment indeedcause it comes and goes in an instant but be realistic as well..all i can say is spend the money on a camera..it will bring a priceless smile to your family's faces somewhere down the road..

Just so I'm clear here.. I think you are acknowledging that there is a definite performance boost in using certain bats (composite, etc) over cheap bats.. but the extra "pop" or distance that a 10-12 year old gets is meaningless because its only Minors, or Junior ball. Is that correct?

If that is what you are saying.. then I will have to disagree with you... confidence is huge. If a young player gains confidence at the plate because of a $200 bat..then that could pay dividends in how they develop into their teen years and into High School ball. I've seen a lot of kids quit Baseball in the area that we live in .. and maybe confidence at the plate has something to do with it.

just a thought.

[wogdoggy]

Just so I'm clear here.. I think you are acknowledging that there is a definite performance boost in using certain bats (composite, etc) over cheap bats.. but the extra "pop" or distance that a 10-12 year old gets is meaningless because its only Minors, or Junior ball. Is that correct?

If that is what you are saying.. then I will have to disagree with you... confidence is huge. If a young player gains confidence at the plate because of a $200 bat..then that could pay dividends in how they develop into their teen years and into High School ball. I've seen a lot of kids quit Baseball in the area that we live in .. and maybe confidence at the plate has something to do with it.

just a thought.



personally i would instill other reasons into my kid that will gain his perception of confidence..like you have great batspeed for your size..you have the BEST hand eye coordination etc..i would instill confidence in my boy by boosting him up verbally with statements he can accept as the truth..instead of saying you have the best bat money can buy so you can hit it further than joey.. blah blah blah...thats not A real confidence builder..


again dont take this the wrong way..i am the most guilty overspending dad in my county,,,just wish i had a little better judgement when 'throwing' money away..

[wogdoggy]

Just so I'm clear here.. I think you are acknowledging that there is a definite performance boost in using certain bats (composite, etc) over cheap bats.. but the extra "pop" or distance that a 10-12 year old gets is meaningless because its only Minors, or Junior ball. Is that correct?

If that is what you are saying.. then I will have to disagree with you... confidence is huge. If a young player gains confidence at the plate because of a $200 bat..then that could pay dividends in how they develop into their teen years and into High School ball. I've seen a lot of kids quit Baseball in the area that we live in .. and maybe confidence at the plate has something to do with it.

just a thought.



my kid couldnt even tell you what bat he used when he was 9 10 11 etc..the bat is going to pay any dividends whatsoever and if you think a BAT has ANYTHING to do with how a player develops into high school you are imo sadly mistaken..finding a great instructor and taking 10 lessons will pay off in spades versus the 200 dollar bat..

kids dont quit baseball cause they have a bat with no "pop'" they generally quit cause they "run out" of talent in high school.

[RodCarew]

my kid couldnt even tell you what bat he used when he was 9 10 11 etc..the bat is going to pay any dividends whatsoever and if you think a BAT has ANYTHING to do with how a player develops into high school you are imo sadly mistaken..finding a great instructor and taking 10 lessons will pay off in spades versus the 200 dollar bat..

kids dont quit baseball cause they have a bat with no "pop'" they generally quit cause they "run out" of talent in high school.

Would you agree that confidence at the plate is a big factor in how someone will perform?

Would you agree that some kids will have more confidence with a bat that they percieve helps them hit better?

[wogdoggy]

Would you agree that confidence at the plate is a big factor in how someone will perform?

Would you agree that some kids will have more confidence with a bat that they percieve helps them hit better?



confidence is a big factor

maybe more confidence but its false confidence,,if his swing stinks it will eventually catch up with him anyway.like i said if you want to give him confidence that will last,, teach him how to perform,,spend the cash on lessons..

perceive to hit better..what doe that mean..? either its a hit fc error or an out..how do you PERCEIVE to hit better when the reality is he's either safe or out?

[RodCarew]

confidence is a big factor

maybe more confidence but its false confidence,,if his swing stinks it will eventually catch up with him anyway.like i said if you want to give him confidence that will last,, teach him how to perform,,spend the cash on lessons..

perceive to hit better..what doe that mean..? either its a hit fc error or an out..how do you PERCEIVE to hit better when the reality is he's either safe or out?

singles turned into doubles, doubles into triples, etc.

I agree with your philosophy that learning how to hit well is most important.. but in today's competitive sports culture.. I don't see what's wrong with teaching your son to hit well and spending a little cash on a bat that will give him a little bit more confidence at the plate.

even in Minors or Junior ball.

For the record, my son hits with a wood bat in practice and has used a Demarini Vexxum for 2 years (bought 2 Vexxums bat pack at Just Bats dot com for $99 total)

This year I splurged on Ebay and bought him a Demarini CF3 White drop 8 for $105 total.

I wont spend too much more than $100 on a bat.

[wogdoggy]

confidence is a big factor

maybe more confidence but its false confidence,,if his swing stinks it will eventually catch up with him anyway.like i said if you want to give him confidence that will last,, teach him how to perform,,spend the cash on lessons..

perceive to hit better..what doe that mean..? either its a hit fc error or an out..how do you PERCEIVE to hit better when the reality is he's either safe or out?

singles turned into doubles, doubles into triples, etc.

I agree with your philosophy that learning how to hit well is most important.. but in today's competitive sports culture.. I don't see what's wrong with teaching your son to hit well and spending a little cash on a bat that will give him a little bit more confidence at the plate.

even in Minors or Junior ball.

For the record, my son hits with a wood bat in practice and has used a Demarini Vexxum for 2 years (bought 2 Vexxums bat pack at Just Bats dot com for $99 total)

This year I splurged on Ebay and bought him a Demarini CF3 White drop 8 for $105 total.

I wont spend too much more than $100 on a bat.

rod i'm not here to tell u how to spend your money but it seems to me you are reasonable spending 100 bucks...again take this from a dad who only has a year or two left..BUY A CAMERA..get as many pictures and videos as you can...trust me on this one buddy ;)

[RodCarew]

[QUOTE=RodCarew;1487505]

rod i'm not here to tell u how to spend your money but it seems to me you are reasonable spending 100 bucks...again take this from a dad who only has a year or two left..BUY A CAMERA..get as many pictures and videos as you can...trust me on this one buddy ;)

Just bought a Nikon D40 for $500 for the wifey to get some good pics with.. :D

could of had a couple of Combats / TechZillas for that price:hissyfit:

[wogdoggy]

Just bought a Nikon D40 for $500 for the wifey to get some good pics with.. :D

could of had a couple of Combats / TechZillas for that price:hissyfit:






could of had a couple of Combats / TechZillas for that price:hissyfit:

wrong wrong wrong :D

[mudvnine]

singles turned into doubles, doubles into triples, etc.

This is where the bat fallacy falls flat on the "little fields" . . . singles are singles unless they find a gap and the choice of bat and its "pop" is not going to change that ball finding the gap 99% of the time. If that 1% is really that important, then by all means go for it, but don't fooled into thinking the bat will suddenly make a "power" hitter out of most kids.

". . . doubles into triples . . ." WHAT!? It must be the fields that I've seen, but at 12U LL & PONY ball, the fences are so short that triples are few and far between and usually due to a misplayed ball and have nothing to do with the bat.

Now for the TB stuff we played larger fields, but that's what I thought the original poster was asking. If it was, the extra 10-15 feet an expensive bat might get the hitter, is again not going to exponentially increase the number of triples in the big scheme of things.

Sometimes I think these expensive bats are more important to the dads then the players, but that's just my take, from my previous experiences. :nod: :ooo: :blush:

[wogdoggy]

This is where the bat fallacy falls flat on the "little fields" . . . singles are singles unless they find a gap and the choice of bat and its "pop" is not going to change that ball finding the gap 99% of the time. If that 1% is really that important, then by all means go for it, but don't fooled into thinking the bat will suddenly make a "power" hitter out of most kids.

". . . doubles into triples . . ." WHAT!? It must be the fields that I've seen, but at 12U LL & PONY ball, the fences are so short that triples are few and far between and usually due to a misplayed ball and have nothing to do with the bat.

Now for the TB stuff we played larger fields, but that's what I thought the original poster was asking. If it was, the extra 10-15 feet an expensive bat might get the hitter, is again not going to exponentially increase the number of triples in the big scheme of things.

Sometimes I think these expensive bats are more important to the dads then the players, but that's just my take, from my previous experiences. :nod: :ooo: :blush:



the guy from anderson told me the only thing they change from year to year is BASICALLY the paint,,he also mentioned that IF a bat is priced TOO cheap they won't sell..

[RodCarew]

This is where the bat fallacy falls flat on the "little fields" . . . singles are singles unless they find a gap and the choice of bat and its "pop" is not going to change that ball finding the gap 99% of the time. If that 1% is really that important, then by all means go for it, but don't fooled into thinking the bat will suddenly make a "power" hitter out of most kids.

". . . doubles into triples . . ." WHAT!? It must be the fields that I've seen, but at 12U LL & PONY ball, the fences are so short that triples are few and far between and usually due to a misplayed ball and have nothing to do with the bat.

Now for the TB stuff we played larger fields, but that's what I thought the original poster was asking. If it was, the extra 10-15 feet an expensive bat might get the hitter, is again not going to exponentially increase the number of triples in the big scheme of things.

Sometimes I think these expensive bats are more important to the dads then the players, but that's just my take, from my previous experiences. :nod: :ooo: :blush:


We dont have fences on any of the fields we play on .. sometimes in tourneys we see home run fences.

I'm not claiming that these are "magic bats" that transform weak hitters into Home run kings.. but for kids that can hit the ball.. they do give a little bit of extra distance and a little bit of extra hop that sometimes makes the difference between a routine ground ball or a ball with eyes. Could be the difference between 0-4 or 2-4 on the day.

I guess I'm one of the suckers that thinks $100 a year is worth it.

[g-mac]

Interesting discussion and I'd have to venture to say you're both correct. I spend way too much on baseball, but I think a quality bat only makes a solid hitter even more confident at the plate. I buy into this philosophy, but only after spending money on hitting instructions.
I have a good camera and I think you're on the right track 100% with your comment about investing in a camera of some sort. Take as many pictures or videos as you can because no matter what, you will always have something to look back upon and appreciate. Enjoy the moment now and capture it the best you can for the future.

[wogdoggy]

We dont have fences on any of the fields we play on .. sometimes in tourneys we see home run fences.

I'm not claiming that these are "magic bats" that transform weak hitters into Home run kings.. but for kids that can hit the ball.. they do give a little bit of extra distance and a little bit of extra hop that sometimes makes the difference between a routine ground ball or a ball with eyes. Could be the difference between 0-4 or 2-4 on the day.

I guess I'm one of the suckers that thinks $100 a year is worth it.

if you truly believe the difference is 2 hits per game its worth the hondo ..I would say the extra 2 hits AINt because of the bat..if it has eyes it has eyes..

[Swing Coach]

Are you guys trying to say that a big barrel bat will hit a ball no further than a 2 1/4??????
I'll take any of you on in a wiffle ball game --- home runs are on the roof or over the house.....you get the skinny yellow bat and I get the plastic bottle bat with the giant barrel.:nod:

SC

[Bolts-Baseball]

Are you guys trying to say that a big barrel bat will hit a ball no further than a 2 1/4?????? In my opinion.... it really depends...

I think the ComBat -10 B-1 2.25" barrel is as "hot" or "hotter" than any 2 5/8" or any 2 3/4" Senior league bat out there... As is the Easton LCN7 2008 Stealth Comp CNT -9 Power Hitter... I can personally say that my son hit tremendous bombs with that Easton model...

Senior league bats usually are a little heavier and have a larger hitting area, but they aren't necessarily "hotter"...

[wogdoggy]

Are you guys trying to say that a big barrel bat will hit a ball no further than a 2 1/4??????
I'll take any of you on in a wiffle ball game --- home runs are on the roof or over the house.....you get the skinny yellow bat and I get the plastic bottle bat with the giant barrel.:nod:

SC

yes...hit the sweet spot and the barell size shouldnt matter..

[Swing Coach]

So you discount the fact more mass will get you more efficiency and power?

We really need some physics people to chime in.

SC

[skipper5]

I find it interesting that so many baseball dads minimize the contribution of bat technology--some almost to the point of denial-- while every adult slowpitch softballer in a competitive league readily admits that bat technology plays a huge role.

Not looking to debate here, just contrasting the baseball dad attitude to the softball player attitude.

Our majors division hit a total of 5 homers among six teams in 1999. A year ago there were 130 homers. Same fences.

Kids love the home-run derby element of the game, and game-integrity isn't an issue. There is some bitterness about it over on the softball side, however.


From ESPN, "Softball Needs Aluminum's Foil"


"The performance enhancers have ruined the game.

Players who could barely hit the ball out of the infield are smashing windshields in the parking lot. Run totals are soaring like gasoline prices. There's talk of altering the mound to help the pitchers. The game is scarcely recognizable from what it was just a decade ago

I am talking of course about softball bats.

What a bunch of hypocrites we are.

At least steroids require an athlete to make some investment (weight-training, painful injections, shrunken testicles, acne). The only investment required for the enhanced softball bats is a credit card with a high enough spending limit."
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=caple/040521

[azmatsfan]

So you discount the fact more mass will get you more efficiency and power?

We really need some physics people to chime in.

SC

Does a big barrel necessarily have more mass? My son's 2 1/4 " is heavier than his big barrel. I would guess that the big barrel is going to have a bigger sweet spot, which would account for more solid hits, but I don't know if a ball hit solidly with a big barrel will go farther than a ball hit solidly with a LL bat. It will just happen more often.

[RodCarew]

if you truly believe the difference is 2 hits per game its worth the hondo ..I would say the extra 2 hits AINt because of the bat..if it has eyes it has eyes..

do you agree that a harder hit ball has a better chance of getting out of the infield than a slower hit ball?

There is no denying that baseballs "jump" off these new bats a bit quicker than the old metal clunkers I used to swing.

It very easily could be the difference between a ball with eyes or a ball that a good shortstop gobbles up and turns a double play on.

[mudvnine]

do you agree that a harder hit ball has a better chance of getting out of the infield than a slower hit ball?

There is no denying that baseballs "jump" off these new bats a bit quicker than the old metal clunkers I used to swing.

It very easily could be the difference between a ball with eyes or a ball that a good shortstop gobbles up and turns a double play on.

Now that, I can agree with . . . :nod: But any more then that, well . . . . :silent:

I guess it's all ones personal perspective, $100 for a bat seems some what reasonable, it's the close to $300 ones I see purchased for the pre-high school kids are what have me scratching my head. :crazy

[wogdoggy]

do you agree that a harder hit ball has a better chance of getting out of the infield than a slower hit ball?

There is no denying that baseballs "jump" off these new bats a bit quicker than the old metal clunkers I used to swing.

It very easily could be the difference between a ball with eyes or a ball that a good shortstop gobbles up and turns a double play on.

not at 10 yrs old,,in my OPINION a average 10 cant produce enough whip yet to make a difference,,,remember at 9 they just start kid pitching..a 300 dollar stealth isnt gonna help your average 10 year old ..thats my opinion..vs a 149 dollar special..

[skipper5]

."a 300 dollar stealth isnt gonna help your average 10 year old"

The most expensive Stealth bat I could find on Justbats.com was a $240 minus- five bat that wouldn't be used by a 10 year old.

I don't mean to jump on you, Wog, but are you exagerating for effect, or is there anything approaching a $300 bat that is appropriate for 10 yr olds?

[hawkiirock]

don't have to so anal about it. Did i say to go buy one. You are the one who made the false statement and I merely corrected you on it. Previous poster said you can buy a good bat for 200, sell it for 100 and thus not be out much more than a walmart cheapy

YOU blurted in and stated you would be surprised if he could get 100. I merely stated they routinely go for 100 or more. well there ya go! get 2...good luck checking for dents and end cap problems via pictures..what bat are you looking for? i was an overexuburant dad too..I have many bats what are you looking for?

i have anderson big barrel de marini f2's etc..

[hawkiirock]

good post and don't forget you can still sell the bat when it is done so you really aren't out that much. :DJust so I'm clear here.. I think you are acknowledging that there is a definite performance boost in using certain bats (composite, etc) over cheap bats.. but the extra "pop" or distance that a 10-12 year old gets is meaningless because its only Minors, or Junior ball. Is that correct?

If that is what you are saying.. then I will have to disagree with you... confidence is huge. If a young player gains confidence at the plate because of a $200 bat..then that could pay dividends in how they develop into their teen years and into High School ball. I've seen a lot of kids quit Baseball in the area that we live in .. and maybe confidence at the plate has something to do with it.

just a thought.

[1chapterahead]

not at 10 yrs old,,in my OPINION a average 10 cant produce enough whip yet to make a difference,,,remember at 9 they just start kid pitching..a 300 dollar stealth isnt gonna help your average 10 year old ..thats my opinion..vs a 149 dollar special..I agree with wogdog on this. My son hits with a $23 Easton we bought at Walmart.... It's pretty amusing to watch when people come over to look at his bat when he's finished hitting.:D

[wogdoggy]

I agree with wogdog on this. My son hits with a $23 Easton we bought at Walmart.... It's pretty amusing to watch when people come over to look at his bat when he's finished hitting.:D



but just think if he used one for 250 ..at 10 times the money you should expect at least 50 percent more distance...

[benz99]

I agree with wogdog on this. My son hits with a $23 Easton we bought at Walmart.... It's pretty amusing to watch when people come over to look at his bat when he's finished hitting.:D

It would be even more amusing to see the scouts lining up if he were swinging a Combat:clapping

[wogdoggy]

It would be even more amusing to see the scouts lining up if he were swinging a Combat:clapping

:laugh:laugh:laugh:laugh do you work for the company?

[benz99]

:laugh:laugh:laugh:laugh do you work for the company?

I wish then I could save hundreds on the bats, just believe in the product that's all:nod:

[wogdoggy]

."a 300 dollar stealth isnt gonna help your average 10 year old"

The most expensive Stealth bat I could find on Justbats.com was a $240 minus- five bat that wouldn't be used by a 10 year old.

I don't mean to jump on you, Wog, but are you exagerating for effect, or is there anything approaching a $300 bat that is appropriate for 10 yr olds?



in my experience someday you will look back and wonder WHY you paid so much in equipment for little league stuff..especially when they are 9 10 11,,when they start to mature into high school then maybe the bat may help a bit..spending big money on bats for kids that young isnt worth it..IMO

[hawkiirock]

Here is the original posters question



I am looking for opinions on what others think are the best for performance. Both in making contact and hittting the ball hard. Basically if your team could use any bat it wanted






I would say he is a grown man and can decide and learn for himself how much he can afford to spend.

In the end we are all on the same side and love baseball

[wogdoggy]

Here is the original posters question



I am looking for opinions on what others think are the best for performance. Both in making contact and hittting the ball hard. Basically if your team could use any bat it wanted






I would say he is a grown man and can decide and learn for himself how much he can afford to spend.

In the end we are all on the same side and love baseball



if you have the means you should definately have one or two at the least...:crazy

[hitnpeas]

in my experience someday you will look back and wonder WHY you paid so much in equipment for little league stuff..especially when they are 9 10 11,,when they start to mature into high school then maybe the bat may help a bit..spending big money on bats for kids that young isnt worth it..IMO


Why isn't it worth it? Are you saying the performance difference between a Combat B1 and a Wally World special doesn't exist? Or are you saying it exists but why spend money on quality equipment for a 9,10,11 y/o?

[wogdoggy]

Why isn't it worth it? Are you saying the performance difference between a Combat B1 and a Wally World special doesn't exist? Or are you saying it exists but why spend money on quality equipment for a 9,10,11 y/o?

i'm saying it does exist different alloys etc BUT it doesnt matter because the kids that age cant provide enough pop to take advantage of it..do you think a 9 or 10 year old can generate enough bat speed to make a two piece bat flex like its supposed to?

and i am also saying WHY spend big money on bats for a 9 10 11 year old..yes exactly what im saying,, but as ferris bueller says if you have the "means",,thats personal preference

when you look back when your kid is in high school you'll see how little that 250 dollar bat meant when he was nine ..IMO

[hitnpeas]

i'm saying it does exist different alloys etc BUT it doesnt matter because the kids that age cant provide enough pop to take advantage of it..do you think a 9 or 10 year old can generate enough bat speed to make a two piece bat flex like its supposed to?

and i am also saying WHY spend big money on bats for a 9 10 11 year old..yes exactly what im saying,, but as ferris bueller says if you have the "means",,thats personal preference

when you look back when your kid is in high school you'll see how little that 250 dollar bat meant when he was nine ..IMO

B1's aren't two piece bats, they are single wall composites and YES, young kids can flex the walls of these bats. You obviously have NO experience with this particular bat. That is ok, but you should reserve comment until you have some hands on knowledge.

To each his own, but to me the WHY spend money on your kids is something you either do or you don't. I am not one of those guys who just has to have the biggest/best of everything, and I also don't believe in over indulgence, but if I can put better equipment in my son's hands and increase their chances of success, the WHY to me is a no brainer. I have done my homework on bat performance so it isn't a matter of buying the most expensive bat. To me, it is about teaching the best swing mechanics I am capable of teaching my boys and then giving them quality equipment to increase their chances of success even further.

btw, you can get a quality composite/alloy for 150 bucks or less when shopping for Little League bats....

[g-mac]

B1's aren't two piece bats, they are single wall composites and YES, young kids can flex the walls of these bats. You obviously have NO experience with this particular bat. That is ok, but you should reserve comment until you have some hands on knowledge.

To each his own, but to me the WHY spend money on your kids is something you either do or you don't. I am not one of those guys who just has to have the biggest/best of everything, and I also don't believe in over indulgence, but if I can put better equipment in my son's hands and increase their chances of success, the WHY to me is a no brainer. I have done my homework on bat performance so it isn't a matter of buying the most expensive bat. To me, it is about teaching the best swing mechanics I am capable of teaching my boys and then giving them quality equipment to increase their chances of success even further.

btw, you can get a quality composite/alloy for 150 bucks or less when shopping for Little League bats....

You pretty much just summed up everything I was thinking as i scrolled down the page. Thanks for saving me from so much typing.:D

[hawkiirock]

way to help the original posters question

BTW, do you believe in spending money for kids ball tourneys. Seems like since they are only 9-11 they should just hit rocks in the back yard. lots cheaperi'm saying it does exist different alloys etc BUT it doesnt matter because the kids that age cant provide enough pop to take advantage of it..do you think a 9 or 10 year old can generate enough bat speed to make a two piece bat flex like its supposed to?

and i am also saying WHY spend big money on bats for a 9 10 11 year old..yes exactly what im saying,, but as ferris bueller says if you have the "means",,thats personal preference

when you look back when your kid is in high school you'll see how little that 250 dollar bat meant when he was nine ..IMO

[wogdoggy]

way to help the original posters question

BTW, do you believe in spending money for kids ball tourneys. Seems like since they are only 9-11 they should just hit rocks in the back yard. lots cheaper

listen hawk SOMEDAY you;ll get there too..you remind me of the chest pounding dad with the 250 dollar stealth that thinks what happens in 9 yr old baseball matters..hopefully you have more sense than that. i think we covered pretty much everything :waving :crazy

[RodCarew]

listen hawk SOMEDAY you;ll get there too..you remind me of the chest pounding dad with the 250 dollar stealth that thinks what happens in 9 yr old baseball matters..hopefully you have more sense than that. i think we covered pretty much everything :waving :crazy

Ask any 9 year old kid who plays baseball if it matters... I bet they will have a different opinion than you....:waving

[wogdoggy]

Ask any 9 year old kid who plays baseball if it matters... I bet they will have a different opinion than you....:waving

matters even more so when there 7 :clapping then when they're 16 chicks matter..:nod:

[Bolts-Baseball]

You give your kids the best you can give, and hopefully it's good enough and they get confidence through your support and teachings...

$50, $100, $200, $300... Who cares? Give them hugs too!

This topic, has gone so far off the original poster's question, the arguing is silly.


God Bless Nick Adenhart and his family... :cry:

[wogdoggy]

You give your kids the best you can give, and hopefully it's good enough and they get confidence through your support and teachings...

$50, $100, $200, $300... Who cares? Give them hugs too!

This topic, has gone so far off the original poster's question, it's inane.


God Bless Nick Adenhart and his family... :cry:

hugs? yeah... everything else not me ,, then you create problems for a kid ..but then again im old school..confidence thru support and teaching? YES ....but buying everything they want..not me..:crazy

another problem we are seeing as a society..i "want" and "immediate" gratification..

[homee3]

wog, you seem to have missed the point entirely. Let me start by saying I didn't ask for your permission on how much I can or will spend. Now, the original question was, "Which bat would those with experience get if the could get any bat, and how do you compare 2 1/4 vs. big barrel bats and why.
This will be more of a team bat. Right now most of our bats are 27" big barrel bats that are individually owned but that are used by the entire team. Our team has been together for 2 years and will probably stay together so we are looking to get a 28 or 29" bat that will fit the bigger stronger kids a little better. We would like to get the best bat available. Anyone that has some answers/opinions on these questions please continue to reply. Thanks.

[wogdoggy]

wog, you seem to have missed the point entirely. Let me start by saying I didn't ask for your permission on how much I can or will spend. Now, the original question was, "Which bat would those with experience get if the could get any bat, and how do you compare 2 1/4 vs. big barrel bats and why.
This will be more of a team bat. Right now most of our bats are 27" big barrel bats that are individually owned but that are used by the entire team. Our team has been together for 2 years and will probably stay together so we are looking to get a 28 or 29" bat that will fit the bigger stronger kids a little better. We would like to get the best bat available. Anyone that has some answers/opinions on these questions please continue to reply. Thanks.

heres my answer..i would get the cheapest big barell i could find its bigger so their chances of "success" are better ..hows

that?

gee ya think I didnt think you were going to ASK for PERMISSION..I could give 2 how you spend your money..

[g-mac]

hugs? yeah... everything else not me ,, then you create problems for a kid ..but then again im old school..confidence thru support and teaching? YES ....but buying everything they want..not me..:crazy

another problem we are seeing as a society..i "want" and "immediate" gratification..
I pay for the lessons and time in the cage. As far as what kind of bat my kids swing...they more or less choose what they want. They work their butts off whether it's yard work, carrying bricks, etc. and I'm happy to help them out by matching what they are willing to spend. As far as their gear, it is rewarded for making the grades at school.
I think there is a happy medium between them getting what they want and going without.

Sorry, to hijack the thread. For the OP, from what Ive seen, I'd still go with a B1 or B2 over a big barrel. I'm sure there are physics that will go against my opinion, but I'm only judging from what I've seen on the field.

[benz99]

Ask any 9 year old kid who plays baseball if it matters... I bet they will have a different opinion than you....:waving

EXACTLY I understand it's 9 year old baseball & it means nothing in the grand scheme of things but to these 9 year olds it may be there world series, we don't know if there gonna play in high school or beyond. So if they show a desire to get better then it matters at this time..

[benz99]

wog, you seem to have missed the point entirely. Let me start by saying I didn't ask for your permission on how much I can or will spend. Now, the original question was, "Which bat would those with experience get if the could get any bat, and how do you compare 2 1/4 vs. big barrel bats and why.
This will be more of a team bat. Right now most of our bats are 27" big barrel bats that are individually owned but that are used by the entire team. Our team has been together for 2 years and will probably stay together so we are looking to get a 28 or 29" bat that will fit the bigger stronger kids a little better. We would like to get the best bat available. Anyone that has some answers/opinions on these questions please continue to reply. Thanks.
If you want a decent bat not to exspensive look at just bats(don't work for them either) they ussually have combo packs that are great deals we got 2 big barrel vexums for 150 for the pair