bat barrel size

Question
QUESTION: Hi..., at what age or league can a player move up from
2 1/4" barrel bats to the bigger size barrel ?
My son is in little league 10 & under and is beginning to become quite the slugger. I'm looking for a new good bat and don't want to invest too much if he can't use it but 1 season. He's using a Rawlings Rush 31/19 with the 2 1/4"
barrel at this time.
Thank you!

ANSWER: Hey Mike,

10-11 year olds = 28"-30"  
11-12 year olds = 30"-32"        

As you can see, your son is ahead of his age.. Be careful..

When choosing a baseball bat, there are a number of factors that must be taken into consideration, including level of play, size of the batter,and comfort.

Aluminum  bats are generally light weight and high strength  Lighter bats are generally preferable to heavier bats as they allow the hitter to generate enough speed to put some "oomph" into it (although there are restrictions about bat weights at most levels). Additionally, aluminum bats can provide more "pop" of the baseball off the bat, and are much more durable (therefore cost effective) than wooden bats.  

The comfort of the baseball bat to the hitter is the most important factor in choosing a bat. As with any piece of sports equipment, the more comfortable you are, the better. Have your son borrow a bat from one of his teammates and see how it feels - a swing in the store doesn't always feel like a swing at the plate!

When choosing a bat for younger players, make sure they can swing the bat without struggling - we've all seen the young players struggling to swing bats that are far too big for them.

Another important factor in choosing the right sized baseball bat is the height of the batter. In general, tall batters should use longer bats.       
Good Luck
Dennis


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you! You have been very helpful and I learned something.
My follow question is ...At what age or league do players get to use (or do they?)those big barrel bats like 2 5/8" etc... Are those for like High School or College leagues?
Thanks,
Mike

Answer
Hey Mike,

It starts in Senior ball..

Little League bats are for ages approx 7 thru 12. They are used in leagues including Little League, Babe Ruth, Dixie Youth, PONY, and AABC. The bat barrel is 2 1/4 inch in diameter. Bat lengths range from 28 inch to 32 inch. Bat weight is measured in weight drop, which varies between brands and models. Heavier bats are around minus 7 weight drop, lighter bats are around minus 13.

Senior League bats are for ages approx 10 thru 13. They are used in certain travel and tournament leagues. The bat barrel is available in 2 5/8 inch (high school regulation), and 2 3/4 inch (Big Barrel). Bat lengths range from 28 inch to 32 inch. Bat weight is measured in weight drop, which varies between brands and models. Heavier bats are around minus 5 weight drop, lighter bats are around minus 11.

High School / College bats are for ages approx 13 and up. They are used in most High School and College leagues. The bat barrel is 2 5/8 inch in diameter.
Good Luck,
Dennis