Major League Baseball is America’s pastime and has been for generations. As a result, it has a deep history and tradition that are still evident in the sport today. One of the most important aspects of the game is the equipment that each player uses, particularly in the case of bats. While metal bats have become increasingly popular in recent years, wooden bats are still the go-to choice for many MLB players. But what type of wood is used to make these bats?
Types of Wood Used to Make Bats
The most commonly used type of wood in MLB bats is maple. Maple is a strong, durable wood with a tight grain, making it an ideal choice for bat making. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to other woods, which is an important consideration for professional baseball players. Ash is another popular choice for bat making. It is a bit softer than maple, but it is also very durable and can be used to make bats of any length. Bamboo is another material that has become increasingly popular for bat making in recent years. It is lightweight, yet still strong and durable. It is also more expensive than maple or ash, but its popularity is growing among MLB players.
Advantages of Wooden Bats
Wooden bats have been the traditional choice for MLB players for many years, and there are several reasons why. The most significant advantage is that they provide the player with more control over the ball. Wooden bats tend to be heavier than metal or composite bats, which gives the player more power and control when they make contact with the ball. Wooden bats also tend to have more “pop” when they make contact with the ball, resulting in higher exit velocities.
Furthermore, wooden bats are known to be more durable than metal or composite bats. They can take more of a beating before they break, which is important for professional players. Wooden bats also have a more traditional look and feel than metal or composite bats, which is an important factor in the game of baseball.
Disadvantages of Wooden Bats
While wooden bats have a number of advantages, they also come with some disadvantages. The most significant disadvantage is that wooden bats tend to be more expensive than metal or composite bats. This is due to the fact that they require more work to make and are more susceptible to damage. Wooden bats also tend to be heavier than metal or composite bats, which can be a disadvantage for some players.
Finally, wooden bats are susceptible to more rapid breakage than metal or composite bats. This is due to the fact that they are made of a softer material, which can cause them to break more easily when they make contact with the ball.
Conclusion
Wooden bats are still the go-to choice for many MLB players, despite the increasing popularity of metal and composite bats. The most commonly used type of wood for bat making is maple, followed by ash and bamboo. Wooden bats provide the player with more control over the ball, as well as a more traditional look and feel. However, wooden bats tend to be more expensive than metal or composite bats and are more susceptible to breakage.