What is BBCOR Bat?
BBCOR (Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution) is a measurement used to standardize the performance of baseball and softball bats. It is a regulation set by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) to ensure that no bat has an unfair advantage over the others. The BBCOR measurement is based on the coefficient of restitution, which is the ratio of the outgoing to the incoming speed of a bouncing ball. A bat with a higher coefficient of restitution will have a higher trampoline effect, allowing a ball to travel further when hit. The BBCOR measurement is designed to limit the trampoline effect, making sure that all bats perform in a similar manner.
What is USSSA Bat?
USSSA (United States Specialty Sports Association) is a governing body that sets standards for bats used in softball and baseball. The USSSA was founded in 1968, and since then has become one of the most prominent governing bodies for amateur sports in the United States. The USSSA has a set of regulations for bats that must be followed in order for them to be approved for use in USSSA sanctioned events. These regulations focus on the bats’ performance, weight, and size.
Difference between BBCOR and USSSA Bats
The main difference between BBCOR and USSSA bats is the level of performance they are capable of. BBCOR bats are designed to limit the trampoline effect, resulting in a lower coefficient of restitution and less distance on batted balls. On the other hand, USSSA bats are designed to maximize the trampoline effect, resulting in a higher coefficient of restitution and more distance on batted balls.
BBCOR Bat:
- Performance: BBCOR bats are designed to limit the trampoline effect, resulting in a lower coefficient of restitution and less distance on batted balls.
- Weight: BBCOR bats must weigh no more than three ounces less than the bat’s length.
- Size: BBCOR bats must be no more than 33 inches long.
USSSA Bat:
- Performance: USSSA bats are designed to maximize the trampoline effect, resulting in a higher coefficient of restitution and more distance on batted balls.
- Weight: USSSA bats must weigh no more than three ounces less than the bat’s length.
- Size: USSSA bats must be no more than 34 inches long.
Advantages of BBCOR Bat
BBCOR bats have several advantages over USSSA bats. First, BBCOR bats are designed to limit the trampoline effect, resulting in more consistent performance. This means that the ball will travel a predictable distance each time it is hit with a BBCOR bat. Second, BBCOR bats are lighter than USSSA bats, making them easier to swing. Finally, BBCOR bats are shorter than USSSA bats, making them more maneuverable and easier to control.
Advantages of USSSA Bat
USSSA bats have several advantages over BBCOR bats. First, USSSA bats are designed to maximize the trampoline effect, resulting in greater distances on batted balls. Second, USSSA bats are longer than BBCOR bats, giving players a larger sweet spot to hit the ball. Finally, USSSA bats are heavier than BBCOR bats, giving players more power when they make contact with the ball.
Which is Better?
The choice of which bat is better ultimately depends on the player and the type of game they are playing. Players who need more power and distance should opt for a USSSA bat, while players who need more control and accuracy should opt for a BBCOR bat.
Conclusion
BBCOR and USSSA bats have different advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of which bat to use depends on the type of game being played and the skills of the player. BBCOR bats are designed to limit the trampoline effect, resulting in a lower coefficient of restitution and less distance on batted balls. On the other hand, USSSA bats are designed to maximize the trampoline effect, resulting in a higher coefficient of restitution and more distance on batted balls. Ultimately, the choice of which bat is better is up to the player.