What Size Bat Should a High School Player Use?
The right bat size can mean the difference between success and failure on the field. Not only is the wrong size bat difficult to manage, it can also make hitting the ball more difficult than it needs to be. As a result, it’s important for high school players to find the perfect bat size for their body type and playing style.
Factors to Consider
When selecting the right bat size for a high school player, there are several factors to take into consideration, including:
- Height and Weight – Height and weight play a major role in determining the right bat size. Generally speaking, the heavier the player, the longer the bat should be. For example, a player who is 6 feet tall and weighs 200 pounds should use a 34-inch bat.
- Strength – Strength also plays a role in determining the right bat size. A player who is strong and has good bat speed should use a lighter bat. Conversely, a player who is not as strong should use a heavier bat.
- Playing Style – The playing style of a high school player should also be taken into consideration when selecting the right bat size. A player who is a power hitter should use a heavier bat to generate more power, while a contact hitter should opt for a lighter bat to generate more bat speed.
- Age – Age is another factor to take into consideration when selecting the right bat size. Generally speaking, younger players should use a lighter bat, while older players should use a heavier bat.
Bat Length
The length of the bat is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting the right bat size for a high school player. Generally speaking, the length of the bat should be determined by the player’s height and weight. The following chart provides a general guide for selecting the right bat length for a high school player:
- Height: 5’0″ – 5’4″ | Weight: Less than 120 lbs | Bat Length: 30″ or less
- Height: 5’4″ – 5’8″ | Weight: 120 – 150 lbs | Bat Length: 31″ – 32″
- Height: 5’8″ – 6’0″ | Weight: 150 – 180 lbs | Bat Length: 33″ – 34″
- Height: 6’0″ – 6’4″ | Weight: 180 – 210 lbs | Bat Length: 35″ – 36″
- Height: 6’4″ or taller | Weight: 210 lbs or more | Bat Length: 37″ or more
Bat Weight
The weight of the bat is also an important factor to consider when selecting the right bat size for a high school player. Generally speaking, a player should use a bat that is between -3 and -7. The -3 bat is the lightest and most suitable for power hitters, while the -7 bat is the heaviest and most suitable for contact hitters.
Drop Weight
The drop weight of a bat is the difference between the length and weight of the bat. For example, a 33-inch, -3 bat has a drop weight of -6. Generally speaking, the drop weight should be determined by the player’s strength and playing style. A strong and powerful player should use a bat with a lower drop weight, while a weaker and more contact-oriented player should use a bat with a higher drop weight.
Barrel Size
The barrel size of a bat is also an important factor to consider when selecting the right bat size for a high school player. Generally speaking, the larger the barrel size, the bigger the sweet spot and the easier it is to hit the ball. As a result, power hitters should opt for a larger barrel size, while contact hitters should opt for a smaller barrel size.
Grip Size
The grip size of a bat is also an important factor to consider when selecting the right bat size for a high school player. Generally speaking, the grip size should be determined by the player’s hand size. A player with small hands should opt for a thinner grip, while a player with large hands should opt for a thicker grip.
Material
The material of the bat is also an important factor to consider when selecting the right bat size for a high school player. Generally speaking, the most popular materials for bats are aluminum, composite, and wood. Aluminum bats are the lightest and most durable, while composite bats offer the most power and pop. Wood bats are the most traditional and offer the most control, but they are also the least durable.
Price
The price of the bat is also an important factor to consider when selecting the right bat size for a high school player. Generally speaking, aluminum bats are the most affordable, while composite bats and wood bats are more expensive.
Testing the Bat
Once a high school player has selected the right bat size, it’s important to test the bat to make sure it’s the right fit. Generally speaking, the player should test the bat on a tee or in the cage to make sure it feels comfortable and the grip is not too tight or too loose.
Conclusion
Selecting the right bat size for a high school player can be a daunting task, but it’s important to take the time to do it right. By considering factors such as height and weight, strength, playing style, age, and price, a high school player should be able to select the perfect bat size for their body type and playing style. Once the right bat size has been selected, it’s important to test the bat to make sure it’s the right fit.