Choosing the Perfect Bat for Your Little Leaguer

Hitting a home run? That all starts with the right bat! This guide will help you navigate the sea of options at your local sporting goods store and pick the perfect bat for your young slugger.

No More Gear Guesswork!

We know it can be overwhelming to choose from all those different bats. But fear not! Here's everything you need to make an informed decision:

• Key Considerations: Learn about bat sizes, weights, and materials to find the best fit for your player's age and strength.
• Helpful Links & Videos: Dive deeper with resources to make sure you're on the right track.
• FAQ: Got questions? We've got answers! From choosing a drop weight to league regulations, we've got you covered.

Still Stumped?

No worries! Reach out to your player's coach for additional guidance, or contact us directly if you have any questions not addressed here.

We want to make sure your little leaguer feels confident and ready to crush the competition!

The Golden Rule

The most important rule for buying a bat for use with Northwest Little Legaue is to ensure that your new bat meets the USA Baseball standards (left in the image below).  USSSA bats are NOT ALLOWED for use in Little League games or practices.  Teenage players participating in Junior League programs may use BBCOR bats.  All players may choose to use a wood bat.

Sizing Guide

Click on the image to enlarge

Helpful Videos

Q: Do I need to buy a bat to play Little League?

Not at all! Sharing bats is common, and Greenville Little League (GLL) even has loaner bats available throughout the season.

Q: Shopping for a bat? Here's what you need to know!

• USA Baseball Bat Only: Only bats stamped with the USA Baseball logo are allowed for games and practices (see image above).
• USSSA Bats Not Allowed: USSSA (1.15 BPF) bats are a no-go in Little League.
• Finding the Perfect Fit: Bats come in various weights, lengths, and sizes. Use our resources or ask for help at the store to find the right size for your player.

Q: Where can I buy a bat?

• Local Sporting Goods Stores: Dick's, Academy, and First Team offer a wide selection of new bats.
• Play It Again Sports: A great option for a used bat at a good price.
• Online Retailers: Tons of youth bats are available online.
• Used Bats: Check Facebook Marketplace and other platforms for pre-owned options.

      Remember: Shopping locally lets you hold, measure, and swing the bat before buying.

Q: How much should I spend?

Expect bat prices to range from $50 to $500. Here's what to consider:

• Age & Skill Level: Younger players might need a more affordable bat to focus on proper swing mechanics.
• Long-Term Player? Consider a higher-quality bat if your child shows dedication to the sport.
• Comfort is Key: The right bat should feel good to hold and swing, not break the bank.
• Focus on Development: Don't chase expensive thinking it equals better performance.

Q: Decoding the Bat Numbers (weight, length, drop):

These measurements are printed on the bat's barrel or knob. Let's break them down:

• Weight (oz): How much the bat weighs.
• Length (in): The bat's total length from top to bottom.
• Diameter: The size of the barrel (big barrels are now legal in Little League).
• Drop: The difference between length and weight (e.g., a 30-inch, 20-ounce bat has a -10 drop).

Q: Choosing the Right Weight/Length/Drop:

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. We recommend watching our sizing videos for guidance. Here are some quick tips:

• Length Check: Stand the bat upright and rest your hand on the knob. If your palm comfortably reaches the knob with a straight arm, the length is good.
• Weight Check: Hold the bat (barrel up) with one outstretched arm. If you can hold it for 30 seconds without dropping it, the weight is likely appropriate.
• Drop Recommendations: Most Little League players will do well with a -10 drop bat. Teenage players can move to -5 or -3.

Q: Choosing a Bat Based on Division:

• T-Ball: Affordable, lightweight bats labeled "T-Ball" are best. Remember, these bats can only be used in T-Ball.
• Coach Pitch, Minors, Majors: Move on from "T-Ball" bats to a standard bat following the weight/length/drop guidelines.
• Junior League: Time for a BBCOR, drop -3 or -5 bat. These are also used in middle and high school.

Remember: When in doubt, consult NWLL officials for the latest bat regulations. Now get out there and hit some home runs!