Breaking in a composite bat is a process that all baseball players must go through in order to get the best performance out of their bats. It is important to take the proper steps when breaking in a composite bat in order to ensure that it is ready for use in the game. This article will provide an overview of the best way to break in a composite bat, including the necessary steps, precautions, and tips to ensure that your bat is ready for use.
What is a Composite Bat?
A composite bat is a type of baseball bat made of a composite material, such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, or fiberglass. Composite bats are becoming increasingly popular with players due to their lightweight construction and large sweet spot. Composite bats also have the advantage of being able to maintain their performance over a longer period of time than traditional aluminum bats.
Why Do You Need to Break In a Composite Bat?
Breaking in a composite bat is an important step in ensuring that the bat performs at its peak. The process of breaking in a composite bat helps to soften the material and make it more flexible, which can increase the trampoline effect and make the bat more durable.
What is the Best Way to Break In a Composite Bat?
Breaking in a composite bat is a process that should be done slowly and carefully. Here are the steps to follow in order to break in a composite bat the right way:
Step 1: Prepare the Bat
The first step in breaking in a composite bat is to make sure it is properly prepared. This includes cleaning the bat with a soft cloth and applying a light coat of oil to help protect the material and make it more flexible.
Step 2: Hit Softly
Once the bat is prepared, it is time to start hitting. Start by hitting softballs, such as Nerf balls, with the bat. This helps to soften the material and make it more flexible.
Step 3: Increase the Intensity
Once the bat has been hit with softballs, it is time to start hitting harder objects, such as wiffle balls. This helps to further soften the material and make it more flexible.
Step 4: Increase the Weight
The last step in breaking in a composite bat is to increase the weight of the objects being hit. Start by using a heavier wiffle ball and gradually increase the weight until you are hitting baseballs.
Tips for Breaking In a Composite Bat
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when breaking in a composite bat:
- Rotate the Bat: After each hit, rotate the bat to ensure that all parts of the bat are evenly broken in.
- Don’t Overdo It: It is important not to overdo it when breaking in a composite bat. Make sure to take breaks in between each session to ensure that the bat is not overworked.
- Check for Damage: After each session, check the bat for any signs of damage or wear. If any damage is present, stop using the bat and replace it.
Precautions
When breaking in a composite bat, it is important to take certain precautions in order to ensure that the bat is not damaged. Here are a few precautions to keep in mind when breaking in a composite bat:
- Use a Batting Tee: When hitting the bat, use a batting tee to ensure that the bat is not damaged by contact with the ground.
- Use a Softball: When hitting the bat, use a softball as opposed to a hardball to prevent any damage to the bat.
- Don’t Overdo It: Make sure to take breaks in between each session to ensure that the bat is not overworked.
Conclusion
Breaking in a composite bat is an important process that all baseball players must go through in order to get the best performance out of their bats. By following the steps outlined in this article, as well as taking the necessary precautions and tips, you can ensure that your bat is ready for use in the game.