Mize Fastpitch Diamonds

Bat Sizes

• Barrel Size: The bat's barrel size is the diameter of the larger part of the bat. The larger and longer the barrel, generally, the larger the sweet spot of hitting the ball. Smaller barrel sizes are lighter and allow for more bat speed. A standard barrel size is 2 1/2 inches.
• Bat Taper: The bat's taper is the diameter of the bat's handle. A bigger bat taper can reduce the sting that occurs when the ball isn't hit on the sweet spot but it also increases the overall weight of the bat. Standard bats are tapered 31/32 of a inch.
• Length and Weight: Baseball bats and softball bats come in different lengths and weights.  The weight drop is a figure you will often see given to describe a bat. It refers to the difference between the length of the bat (in inches) and the weight of the bat (in ounces). It is always shown as a minus number and the higher the weight drop, the lighter the bat. For example, a baseball bat with a -10 weight drop would be lighter than a bat with a -3 weight drop.

Note: In general, bigger, stronger players usually prefer a heavier bat since they reap benefits from both the heft and swing power. Smaller and younger players should use a lighter bat to generate a quicker swing and provide better control.

Bat Technology

Softball bat technology has advanced significantly over the years, enabling manufacturers to build lighter and more durable bats. Each manufacturer has their own terminology for their designs but we have highlighted a few of the newest technologies currently on the market.

Louisville Slugger -

• Exogrid Stiff-Handle Technology - Developed to increase handle strength and stiffness without increasing weight. This is achieved by trimming some of the handle's metal in a grid pattern and replacing it with lighter, stiffer carbon inserts. A carbon sleeve is also inserted with unidirectional fibers that run the length of the handle. Finally, using heat and pressure, the sleeve, inserts and metal wall are bonded together to function as a single, solid unit.

• X-1 Composite Technology - Features multiple layers of 100% aerospace grade graphite which are embedded in a specially designed toughened epoxy resin. Each layer is precisely positioned at an angle determined by Louisville Slugger's exclusive computer-designed pattern. The result is a bat with the optimum combination of performance and durability. Featured on the Louisville FB81C TPS Catalyst Fastpitch Softball Bat.

Wilson -

• Half & Half Technology - The original "Bat That Bends", Half & Half technology combines a Flex-Tuned Evolution Composite handle with an SC-3 Alloy barrel for optimal balance and a monstrous sweet spot. Virtually indestructible, the Half & Half™ system redistributes weight for optimal balance, allowing players to swing faster with less effort. It is quickly becoming a mainstay of top college programs.

• Positack Grip - Moisture-absorbing composite material provides a secure grip while also reducing vibration and hand fatigue for better feel and control, with or without a glove. The Wilson DEMARINI Medusa DXMFP Fast Pitch Softball Bat features this grip as well as the Half & Half technology.

Bat Regulations

• Bat Performance Factor (BPF) - Defined as the increase in the liveliness of a ball hitting a bat compared to throwing a ball against a solid wall. For example, a baseball bat with a BPF of 1.20 would rebound a ball 20% faster than a solid wall would).

• Ball Exit Speed Requirement (BESR) - The ball cannot rebound off the the barrel of the bat at a speed higher than 97 MPH.

• College / High School Regulations

  • Must meet BESR

  • The bat barrel can be no larger than 2 5/8" in diameter

  • The bat can be no lighter than 3 ounces less than the length