Introduction
The use of aluminum bats in college baseball dates back almost forty years ago. While aluminum bats are still commonly found in youth leagues and high school baseball, their use in collegiate baseball has been debated since the 1990s. This article will discuss the history of aluminum bats in college baseball, the current status of their use in the NCAA, and the pros and cons of using aluminum bats in college baseball.
History of Aluminum Bats in College Baseball
The use of aluminum bats in college baseball began in the early 1980s with the development of the first all-aluminum bat, the BESR (Ball Exit Speed Ratio) bat. This bat was designed to increase the speed at which a ball exited the bat and to reduce the risk of injury to players. The BESR bat was adopted by the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) in 2003 and remains the only type of aluminum bat that is approved by the NCAA.
Current Status of Aluminum Bats in NCAA Baseball
Although aluminum bats are still used in college baseball, the NCAA has implemented several regulations to reduce their effectiveness. These include a ban on composite bats, which are made from two or more materials, and a ban on “hot-out-of-the-wrapper” bats, which are designed to hit the ball harder than other bats. Additionally, the NCAA has implemented a new testing system to ensure that all aluminum bats meet the standards set by the organization.
Pros of Using Aluminum Bats in College Baseball
There are several advantages to using aluminum bats in college baseball. The most obvious is that aluminum bats are lighter and easier for hitters to swing. This allows hitters to generate more power and hit the ball farther than with a wooden bat. Additionally, aluminum bats tend to be more durable than wooden bats, reducing the need to replace them as often. Finally, aluminum bats are often less expensive than wooden bats, making them a more affordable option for college teams.
Cons of Using Aluminum Bats in College Baseball
Despite the benefits of aluminum bats, there are several potential drawbacks to their use in college baseball. The most significant of these is that aluminum bats tend to make the game more dangerous. The increased speed of the ball off the bat can pose a risk to pitchers, infielders, and even the hitters themselves. Additionally, aluminum bats can create an uneven playing field, as some hitters may be able to generate more power with an aluminum bat than with a wooden bat.
Conclusion
Aluminum bats have been a part of college baseball for over thirty years. While the NCAA has implemented regulations to reduce the effectiveness of these bats, they are still commonly used in college baseball today. While aluminum bats offer several advantages, including lighter weight and increased power, they also pose potential risks to the safety of players. Ultimately, the decision to use aluminum bats in college baseball is up to each individual school or conference.