As a 12-year-old, you’re at an age when you’re beginning to play competitive baseball. You’ll need the right bat in order to be successful, and that includes choosing one with the right drop. Here’s what you need to know to make sure you get the right bat for your age and skill level.
Understanding Drop
Before you can choose the right drop bat, you need to understand what drop is and how it’s measured. Drop is the difference between the length of a bat (measured in inches) and the weight of the bat (measured in ounces).
For example, a bat that is 30 inches long and weighs 20 ounces has a drop of -10. That means that the bat is 10 ounces lighter than it is long. The lower the drop, the lighter the bat.
Choosing the Right Drop
When it comes to choosing the right drop bat for a 12-year-old, it’s important to take into account both the player’s age and skill level. Generally speaking, younger players should use lighter bats with lower drops, and more experienced players should use heavier bats with higher drops.
For a recreational 12-year-old, the best bet is to choose a bat with a drop between -10 and -13. This means that the bat will be 10 to 13 ounces lighter than it is long. This is a good weight for younger players because it will allow them to generate more speed while still providing enough control.
For a more experienced 12-year-old, a drop between -8 and -10 is recommended. This will allow the player to generate more power and control, but it will still be light enough for them to swing it with enough speed.
Types of Bats
When it comes to finding the right drop bat for a 12-year-old, there are several types to choose from.
Wood bats: Wood bats are great for players of all ages, but they are especially good for younger players because they are lightweight and easy to control. Wood bats also have a larger sweet spot, which means that they are more forgiving on off-center hits.
Aluminum bats: Aluminum bats are the most popular choice for 12-year-olds because they are durable and relatively inexpensive. They are also lightweight, which makes them easy to swing.
Composite bats: Composite bats are made of a combination of materials and offer a blend of power and control. They are a bit more expensive than aluminum bats, but they are also more durable and can last up to three times longer.
Conclusion
Choosing the right drop bat is an important decision for any 12-year-old player. You want to make sure that the bat is light enough for them to swing it with enough speed, but also heavy enough for them to generate power and control. Generally speaking, younger players should use bats with lower drops, while more experienced players should use bats with higher drops. There are also several types of bats to choose from, including wood, aluminum, and composite bats. With a little research and careful consideration, you should be able to find the perfect drop bat for your 12-year-old.