Baseball
balls
bats
gloves |
Baseball bats are the element of baseball
that has seen the most technological advancement.
Although wood bats are the only acceptable
bat for Major League Baseball play, aluminum,
graphite, and titanium lined bats are popular
in other leagues. If you are considering
a metal bat, check the applicable rule book
before buying one.
Size
A Major League Baseball must be 42 inches
or shorter and not more than 2.75 inches
in diameter. Most bats are between 24 and
34 inches with the 34 inch size recommended
for players over 16 or over 5' 9" and
170 pounds.
Weight
A heavy bat is hard to swing, but if you
have the upper body strength, a heavy bat
can hit the ball farther. However, a heavy
bat is hard to control and more dangerous
if thrown.
Material
In addition to wood, bats are made from aluminum,
graphite, and titanium. Aluminum (actually
aluminum alloy) bats are lighter than their
wood counterparts but they are far more durable.
More exotic metals such as graphite and titanium
are added to aluminum to further enhance
its lightness and reduce "ball shock,"
the vibration that occurs when a metal bat
strikes the ball. |
|
|
