Hit a Home Run with your Bat Choice! π₯π
Understanding "Drop" in Youth Baseball Bats
When it comes to baseball bats, "drop" is the term used to describe the difference between the bat's length (in inches) and its weight (in ounces). This is calculated as weight - length = drop. For instance, a bat that is 28 inches long and weighs 15 ounces would have a drop of -13 (15-28 = -13).
1. Bat Length and Weight
- Youth baseball bats range from 25β to 32β in length.
- Tee ball bats range from 24β to 26β in length.
- Youth bats usually have a drop between -7 and -13.
2. USA Baseball Approval
- Always confirm that the bat is USA Baseball approved before purchasing, especially for use in Tee ball through Majors. This approval ensures the bat meets specific safety and performance standards.
- 'USA Baseball' is NOT synonymous with USSSA, as logic would lead us to believe. Look for this logo and you are good.
3. Little League Bat Rules
- Majors and Below: Non-wood and laminated bats must have the USA Baseball logo. This indicates compliance with Youth Bat Performance Standards.
- Intermediate and Juniors: Bats can be either USA Baseball or BBCOR certified.
- Seniors: Only BBCOR certified bats are allowed.
Specific Bat Rules by Division
Minor/Major Division Bats (AA
- Max length: 33 inches
- Max diameter: 2 5/8 inches
- Wooden bats: Minimum diameter of 15/16 inches (or 7/8 inches for bats less than 30 inches in length).
- Non-wood bats must be USA Baseball or BBCOR certified.
Seniors
- Non-wood bats must be BBCOR certified.
Tee Ball Bats
- Certified Tee Ball bats (26β and shorter) must have the USA Baseball mark and text stating "ONLY FOR USE WITH APPROVED TEE BALLS."
- Most Tee Ball bats should be between 25β and 26β in length, with a drop weight around -10.
Softball Bats
- Must meet Little League specifications, with a maximum length of 33 inches (34 inches for Junior/Senior League.)
- Diameter no more than 2 1/4 inches.
Additional Guidelines, Resources, and Recommendations
Measuring Your Child for a Bat
- Measure the childβs height with game cleats on.
- Ensure the batβs knob is at the hip level when stood next to the child.
- Weigh the child to determine the appropriate bat length and weight.
Bat Buying Guides and Resources
Our General (Very General!) Recommendations
- A/AA: 26-28in, drop 11-13
- AAA: 28-30, drop 10-12
- Majors: 30-32, drop 9-11