Bat Rules
The official bat shall be round in cross section for its entire length, straight from end to end for its entire length and smooth-surfaced in the hitting area. The maximum diameter shall not exceed two and five eighths (2 5/8) inches. All bats larger in diameter than two and one quarter (2 ¼) inches must be "equal too or heavier" than minus 10 (-10) for U5 thru U14. For example -10, -9, -8, -7, -6 or -5 are acceptable length to weight ratios, whereas -11, -12 and -13 is not. The maximum length shall not exceed thirty-six (36) inches. The bat shall be constructed of wood, aluminum, or any other material or combination of materials but cannot exceed the 1.15BPF (Bat Performance Factor) as defined for baseball bats by ASTM standards. Any material to improve the grip may be used for a distance not to exceed eighteen (18) inches from the handle end. All bats must be commercially manufactured for baseball play; softball bats or bats altered after manufacture to reduce or add weight will not be allowed.
All bats with the USSSA 1.15BPF emblem on them are approved:
FAQ
• What does BPF Mean?
• The BPF standard was developed by NYU Physics Professor, Dr. Richard A. Brandt, over 15 years ago. The BPF standard is based on fundamental laws of physics that allow Dr. Brandt’s testing lab to measure the relative performance of bats to be used in USSSA play.
• If I have an old bat that has a BPF greater than 1.15 (1.20) can I use my bat?
• No bats will be allowed in any LTYA game or practice with a BPF greater than 1.15
• When someone references the "drop” on a bat, what does that mean?
• The drop refers to the amount the bat weighs compared to the length of the bat. If a bat is 30 inches long and has a drop of -3 then the bat weighs 27 ounces.
• I have a son who plays TBall. Can he use a 26 inch, -12, 2 5/8 bat?
• No, all bats that are greater than 2 ¼ diameter cannot exceed a drop of minus 10 (-10)
• What size bat do you recommend for my son who plays 8U coach pitch?
• We recommend that all players swing a bat that is comfortable for them given the requirements mentioned above. Very few 8U and 6U players will be strong enough to swing a big barrel (2 5/8 diameter) bat with a -10 drop. We recommend that you look to purchase a 2 ¼ bat with a drop that is comfortable for your son to swing.
• I have a 2 ¾ diameter bat from last year. Can I use it this year?
• LTYA will not allow any 2 ¾ diameter bats to be used at any level of baseball starting in Spring of 2012
• I found a bat that is 2 5/8 but is called a "Senior Bat”. Is this type of bat allowed?
• Yes, "Senior Bats” are allowed as long as the diameter and drop meet the requirements mentioned above
• Why is LTYA changing all of the bat rules from last year?
• LTYA is committed to the safety of our players. We are following the same guidelines as the Centex All-Star series when determining what bats are allowed to be used in our league. Across the entire country leagues are banning the "Hot Bats” that have become so popular with players. The standard BPF system and reduction in barrel size will create a safer environment for our players. In addition, 2 5/8 bats are the largest diameter bats allowed at the High School and Collegiate level of play.