Baseball bats have come a long way since their introduction to the game of baseball in the 1800s. They’ve gone from being made of solid wood, to being constructed from composite materials, and from being a uniform length, to now being made in a variety of lengths and weights to accommodate players of all sizes. But, who swings the longest baseball bat in the major leagues?
The Longest Bats in the Major Leagues
When it comes to the longest bats in the major leagues, the distinction belongs to some of the game’s biggest power hitters. Players like Giancarlo Stanton, Aaron Judge, and Bryce Harper have all made headlines for their immense power and they also boast some of the longest bats in the majors.
Stanton’s bat measures in at a whopping 35 inches, while Judge and Harper both swing 34.5-inch models. Though all three of these players have some of the longest bats in the majors, they are not alone. Other notable power hitters who swing longer-than-average bats include Jose Abreu, Justin Turner, and Lucas Duda.
What Is the Average Bat Length in the Major Leagues?
The average bat length in the major leagues is 33 inches. That said, there is a wide range of lengths used in the big leagues. While the majority of players swing bats between 33 and 34 inches, some players have been known to use bats as long as 36 inches or as short as 29 inches.
Why Do Longer Bats Help Power Hitters?
Though longer bats may seem like a mere novelty, they actually offer a variety of benefits for power hitters. Longer bats tend to have a larger sweet spot and a greater surface area, which can help the hitter generate more power. Additionally, longer bats are usually heavier than shorter bats, which can help the hitter generate more bat speed.
Additionally, longer bats tend to be more forgiving on off-center contact. When a hitter makes contact with the ball in the middle of the bat, they will experience optimal power. However, if they make contact off-center, the power output will decrease. But, with a longer bat, the power output will be more consistent, even if the contact is off-center.
Using a Longer Bat
Though longer bats can offer some benefits, they are not for everyone. If a player is not comfortable swinging a longer bat, they should opt for a shorter model. Additionally, players should make sure that their bat length is properly matched to their size and strength. A smaller or weaker player may struggle to generate power with a longer bat, and could benefit from using a shorter model.
Conclusion
When it comes to the longest bats in the major leagues, the distinction belongs to some of the game’s biggest power hitters. Players like Giancarlo Stanton, Aaron Judge, and Bryce Harper all swing longer-than-average bats, ranging in length from 34.5 to 35 inches. Though longer bats can offer some benefits, they are not for everyone and players should make sure to choose a bat length that matches their size and strength.