Youth baseball bat standards and sizing

The three standards you'll see

USABat

A standard introduced for 2018 and adopted by many youth organizations, including Little League and others. Approved bats carry the USA Baseball stamp (the USABat logo).

USSSA (1.15 BPF)

A performance standard used by USSSA and some travel and tournament organizations. These bats carry a USSSA 1.15 BPF stamp. Many leagues that use USABat do not allow them.

BBCOR (.50)

The standard for high school and college baseball. BBCOR bats are -3 drop with a maximum barrel diameter of 2 5/8 inches and must carry the BBCOR stamp.

Wood bats are allowed nearly everywhere. If your child changes leagues or levels, the bat you need may change too.

What "drop" means

The drop weight is the bat's length in inches minus its weight in ounces. A 30-inch, 18-ounce bat is a -12. A bigger drop number means a lighter bat for its length. Younger players usually swing lighter bats, and older players move toward heavier ones.

Barrel size

Youth bats commonly come in 2 1/4 inch and 2 5/8 inch barrels. Match the barrel to what your league allows.

How to choose a size

1. Start with your league's bat rules. They set the stamp, barrel size and sometimes the drop.
2. Think control over size. A bat your child can swing quickly and level beats one that is too long or too heavy.
3. Try before you buy. Have your child swing it a few times. If the barrel drops or the swing looks like a struggle, go lighter or shorter.
4. Don't buy to grow into. A bat that is too big hurts mechanics.
5. Ask the coach. Coaches see swings every week.

Materials and care

• Alloy bats are durable and often less expensive. Composite bats may feel different and can need a break-in period.
• Don't use bats in cold weather if the maker advises against it.
• Retire bats that are cracked, dented or damaged.

For the rest of the gear list, see youth baseball equipment checklist.