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USSSA Certified

BBCOR Certified

Bat Certification

Length

20OZ

24OZ

27OZ

29OZ

Weight

Drop

Rawlings

Easton

Louisville Slugger

Marucci

Brand

Used

Condition

Composite

Alloy

Bat Material

High School & College

Kid Pitch (9YO-13YO)

Age Group

2 1/4"

2 3/8"

2 1/2"

2 5/8"

2 3/4"

Other / Unknown

Barrel

2024

2023

Release Year

White

Yellow

Color

Icon

## Rawlings ICON Baseball Bat

Known for engineering some of the most trusted and technologically advanced equipment in the game, Rawlings consistently pushes the envelope to meet and exceed the expectations of players at all levels. The ICON offers state-of-the-art features in a carbon composite bat—all of which highlight Rawlings’ commitment to quality, performance, and durability.

  

Perfect bat for: Power hitters who want a perfect blend of heft and control.

### Key features include:

-   In/Tense Carbon Composite: Ensuring maximum barrel size while maintaining optimal stiffness.
    
-   Zero-Loss Collar: Creates a smooth connection between the handle and barrel to eliminate any drag of vibration.
    
-   Balanced swing weight: maximizes bat speed and plays to any type of offensive approach.
    
-   RevGrip: Tapered Premium Grip provides cushion and track.
    
-   Aerodynamic Design: Enhances swing speed without sacrificing power.
    

### Top competitors comparison: [Marucci CAT X Composite](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat-x-composite/l175805) and the [Louisville Slugger Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)

  

The big barrels on the Marucci CAT X Composite and the Louisville Slugger META, both feature flexible-feeling two-piece composite constructions. In comparison, the 2023 Rawlings Icon stands out with its In/Tense carbon composite construction which maximizes barrel size while maintaining it’s stiffness, perfect for big hitters. Each bat caters to specific league regulations and player preferences, with the CAT X Composite and META offering composite technology, while the Rawlings Icon features a zero-loss collar and connection joint creating a smooth connection between handle and barrel.  
  

### Progression of the Rawlings ICON Baseball Bat:

  
2023 is the first year of the Rawlings ICON.  
  

### What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)

**PROS**

-   The Rawlings Icon is a beast on the field. Hits are powerful and consistent.
    
-   The sweet spot on this thing is like a magnet for the ball. It's tough as nails and can take a beating, which is exactly what you need in the game.
    
-   It's light and easy to swing. The ICON gives me control on the barrel. It feels lighter than other -3 bats. There is ZERO sting on this carbon composite. The ICON has a HUGE sweet spot and pop
    

**CONS**

-   The stock grip is just kinda okay – not as sticky or comfy as I expected. It's no deal-breaker, though. Folks generally like to tweak their grips to suit their style.
    
-   I'm not a big fan of the tapered knob on the ICON because I like to feel the handle more at the bottom (purely preference), but the handle feels fantastic.
    
-   The barrel cracked at the base of the handle. Travel ball practice starts this week and his brand new Icon is useless.
    

### Certification: BBCOR, USSSA, and USA

### Expert Notes ([Tony](https://sidelineswap.com/locker/batexperts))

The ICON is the new hot bat from Rawlings. It's the top bat in the market right now. In terms of sales, very popular. You've got a lot of guys online doing reviews on it. I think the hype comes from the merger between Easton and Rawlings. They've got a lot of technology and have come up with a really strong-performing bat this season.

  

Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  
**Mid-Balanced** or End loaded?

CAT X

## Marucci CAT X Bat

The Marucci CAT X is a single-piece alloy bat that features a huge barrel and powerful out-of-the-wrapper performance. Designed with precision, the CAT X exemplifies Marucci's commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and engineering in bat design. Founded in 2009 with a commitment to enhance the game using top-tier equipment, Marucci has since made significant advancements in bat technology thanks to direct collaboration with professional athletes. This relationship with some of the game's top players ensures Marucci's products are crafted with a keen understanding of what athletes truly need at the plate.

**Perfect bat for:** High school and collegiate players who demand elite performance, superior balance, and a more responsive feel from their equipment.


### Key features include:



* **AZR Alloy Construction:** Offers a more responsive microstructure for better feel, more forgiveness, and enhanced performance at the plate.
* **Multi-variable wall design:** Creates an expanded sweet spot and thinner barrel walls that are more forgiving after off-centered contact.
* **Ring-free barrel technology:** Provides maximum performance with no “dead” spots, ensuring every hit feels solid and powerful.
* **AV2 Anti-vibration knob:** Features an upgraded, finely tuned harmonic dampening system for better feel and less vibration.
* **Professionally Inspired Handle**: Features a removable taper and ergonomic knob shape for more top-hand control and comfortable swings.


### Top competitors comparison: The [Rawlings Velo ACP](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/rawlings/velo-acp/l164357) and the [Easton ADV 360](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/adv-360/l59709)

Marucci's CAT X sets itself apart with its unique AZR alloy construction and anti-vibration technology. It is ideal for players looking for a blend of traditional feel and modern performance enhancements. While the Rawlings Velo ACP leads the field with its Accelerated Carbon Performance for a lighter swing, and the Easton ADV 360 capitalizes on its Launch Comp™ technology for higher flex and response, the CAT X shines with its superior balance, reduced vibration, and increased sweet spot thanks to its proprietary construction and design features.


### Progression of the Marucci CAT X Baseball Bat:


Here is a list that details the progression of this series, highlighting the main features and advancements with each new model. 


**2019 - [CAT8](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat9-2/l163499), CAT8 CONNECT, CAT COMPOSITE**



* CAT8, CAT8 Connect, and CAT Composite are launched.
* The barrels of CAT8 and CAT8 Connect are constructed using the new AZ105 alloy for higher performance at the sweet spot.
* Introduction of SDX EXT connection technology for a stiffer connection and improved energy transfer.
* CAT Composite, a two-piece composite bat, is introduced with SDX EXT and ring-free barrel construction. 


**2021 - [CAT9](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat9-2/l163499) and CAT9 Connect**



* CAT9 and CAT9 Connect are released with the new AZR alloy for a more responsive microstructure.
* CAT9 features a 2nd Generation AV2 Anti-vibration knob and additional weight below the hands for better control.
* CAT9 Connect introduces the Outer-Locking System (OLS) for an even stiffer connection and virtually zero vibrations.

**2023 - [CATX](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat-x/l175792), CATX Connect, and CATX Composite**



* The CATX, CATX Connect, and CATX Composite represent a significant generational change.
* CATX features AZR Alloy with new barrel profiles and an ergonomic, custom-shaped tapered handle.
* CATX introduces Liquid-Gel anti-vibration technology.
* CATX Connect and CATX Composite maintain the OLS and introduce S-40 composite handle for increased performance and energy transfer.
* Barrel profiles are reshaped for better balance, with a focus on data from the Baseball Performance Lab.


### What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)

**PROS**



* Decent pop and has good barrel control. It seems lighter due to the way it;s balanced. If you’re thinking of moving up in size, do it with this bat.
* I got my son the CAT X BBCOR 33" bat. He chose it over his Voodoo One for his high school varsity games. The CAT X seems well-built, and other players using it have had no issues. In contrast, two of his teammates' Voodoo One bats have already broken this season.
* The grip is cushioned and comfortable. The liquid gel handle reduces vibrations and the "sweet spot" on the barrel is forgiving. Highly recommend this bat.

**CONS**



* The BBCOR Cat X is by far the worst Marucci we've ever bought. It has NO Pop and sounds like he's hitting rocks with the bat. The ball barely leaves the infield when he hits it. 
* Broken in by underhand toss of 160 pitches. Handle broke in a week. Wearing gloves saved the my son's hands.
* Unfortunately my son has been using this bat for only a few weeks and there is already something rattling in the handle.


### **Certification**: BBCOR and USSSA


### Expert Notes ([Tony](https://sidelineswap.com/locker/batexperts))

CATX came out in 2023. The first gen is a white ribbon silver bat. For the second run, Marucci came out with a version called the CATX Vanta. It's a blacked-out, limited-edition. Both gens are an alloy one-piece bat, both very strong performers. They took the alloy and strength from the CAT9 and applied the balance and feel from the CAT8 to develop the CATX.

Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
<span style="text-decoration:underline;">**Balanced**</span> or End loaded?

Hype Fire

## Easton Hype Fire Baseball Bat

Easton continues to light up baseball with its latest innovation, the Hype Fire bat. The Hype Fire features state-of-the-art materials and engineering to deliver explosive power, unmatched speed, and precision control. Designed with input from professional hitters, the Hype Fire aims to elevate the game of any player who wields it, burning past the competition with every swing. Known for blending cutting-edge technology with unparalleled craftsmanship, Easton has been long been a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels.


**Perfect bat for:** The powerful young player that still gets to use USSSA Bats.


### Key features include:



* **Revolutionary Composite Technology:** Crafted for peak performance, offering superior durability and an expanded sweet spot.
* **Dynamic Feel System:** Provides the ultimate in energy transfer and feel for more power and efficiency in every swing.
* **Speed Cap Design:** Enhances the sound and feel of the bat upon contact, coupled with improved barrel flexibility for a bigger impact.
* **VRSCOR Handle Insert:** Offers a solid feel and increased comfort, reducing vibration for a smoother swing.
* **Optimized Barrel Profile:** Increased barrel length provides a larger hitting area, suited for precision hitting.
* **Attention-Grabbing Aesthetic:** Features a distinctive fiery design that stands out on the field, complemented by a high-grip handle for maximum control.


### Top competitors comparison: [Louisville Slugger Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403) and the [DeMarini CF](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/cf-20/l59398)

The Easton Hype Fire aims to outshine competitors like the Louisville Slugger Meta and the DeMarini CF with its focus on a high-octane combination of power, speed, and comfort. While the Slugger Meta is known for its groundbreaking vibration-dampening system and the DeMarini CF for its balanced swing, the Hype Fire is engineered to capture the best of both worlds, adding a distinctive edge in aesthetics and ergonomic design to ignite the performance of any player looking to make a statement.


### Progression of the Easton Hype Fire Baseball Bat:


The biggest differences between the 2023 and 2024 is a redesigned TCT™ Barrel aimed at widening the sweet spot, improving off-center hits, and maximizing the overall performance area.


### What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)

**PROS**



* My son loves the 30", 5oz Easton Fire bat. It's hot straight out of the wrapper and feels lighter than his old one. The colors are bold but the grip is great. It has a normal composite bat sound and a well-balanced swing with a lot of pop. Highly recommended.
* My son switched to Easton Hype Fire bat after being a fan of Marucci for years. He loves the huge sweet spot, lighter weight and tons of pop. According to him, it's the perfect bat for USSSA.
* I love to see the confidence this bat gives my son. He's a very strong hitter, but with this bat, I see him being more patient, trusting his swing more, and hitting harder balls. 


**CONS**



* My son used this bat for about 2-3 months before small cracks in the bat started to form. He still used it because his old bat (30-inch -8 Demarini Zoa) was broken. It is an amazing bat but it probably won't last a full season in 13U baseball because of the speed.
* My son's new bat, a 30" (-8), has a small 1/2" crack after just two sessions of coach pitch BP with around 50 hits. It's brittle and we've never used it on a tee or machine. I'm surprised at how quickly it broke.
* I wish they were made stronger. It has great pop, great swing but the durability is lacking. Our original purchase cracked in a month and our replacement cracked in 2 months.


### Certification: USA


### Expert Notes ([Tony](https://sidelineswap.com/locker/batexperts))

The Hype Fire is the hottest, lightest swinging bat right now. The swing rate is very fast. It's a balanced, two piece composite bat. The first ones that came out had some breakage issues but they are now on that bat's second gen. We've not seen any of the new ones breaking. And to top it all off, it has the coolest paint job. The flames are yellow, orange, and red. The players love that. 

Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
<span style="text-decoration:underline;">**Mid-Balanced**</span> or End loaded?

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Used Rawlings Icon Bat USSSA Certified (-5) Composite 27 oz 32" BB5S7

New Easton Hype Fire Bat USSSA Certified (-5) Composite 27 oz 32"

(New)

2023 Marucci CAT X Bat BBCOR Certified (-3) Alloy 29 oz 32" (New)

New Louisville Prime ONE 919 32" 20oz -12 baseball bat 2 3/4 USSSA WTLSLP119X12

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