Bats

Baseball

Sale

USSSA Certified

Bat Certification

Length

26OZ

27OZ

Other/Unknown

Weight

-8.5

Drop

Marucci

Easton

Brand

Used

Condition

Alloy

Composite

Hybrid

Bat Material

Kid Pitch (9YO-13YO)

Age Group

2 5/8"

2 3/4"

Barrel

2023

2021

Release Year

Black

Blue

Color

CAT9

## Marucci CAT 9 Bat


  

The Marucci CAT 9 baseball bat is part of Marucci's highly respected CAT series, known for its balance, performance, and durability. Introduced as an upgrade from the previous models, the CAT 9 incorporates new technologies and materials to provide a superior hitting experience.

  

Since its inception in 2009, Marucci has risen to prominence in the baseball industry by prioritizing direct input from professional players. This player-driven design philosophy has guided the development of some of the market's most trusted and high-performing baseball equipment. Marucci's dedication to quality and performance, coupled with its commitment to a detailed, handcrafted process, has established the brand as a favorite among players at all levels of the game.  
  

Perfect bat for: Youth players who are looking to elevate their game with superior balance, power, and performance.

  

### Key features include:

-   AZR Alloy Construction: Offers a more responsive microstructure for better feel, increased forgiveness, and enhanced performance at elevated swing speeds.
    
-   Precision-Balanced Barrel: Engineered for optimal balance, providing players with control and consistency in their swings.
    
-   Multi-Variable Wall Design: Creates an expanded sweet spot and thinner barrel walls, which help in forgiving off-center hits.
    
-   Ring-Free Barrel Technology: Eliminates dead spots in the barrel, ensuring maximum performance and solid contact throughout the bat.
    
-   Anti-Vibration Knob: Features an AV2 knob that reduces vibration, providing a better feel and minimizing hand sting on mis-hits.
    
-   Micro-Perforated Soft-Touch Grip: Ensures superior comfort and an enhanced feel, allowing for better control and reduced hand fatigue.
    
-   One-Piece Alloy Construction: Delivers a clean, consistent, traditional swing feel with built-in durability for long-lasting performance.
    

### Top competitors comparison: [Easton ADV 360](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/adv-360/l59709) and the [Louisville Slugger Solo](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/solo/l7816)  
  
The rivals include the Easton ADV 360 and the Louisville Slugger Solo. The Marucci Cat 9 stands out due to its innovative AZR alloy construction, offering a unique combination of feel, performance, and durability that is tailored specifically for the developing player. While the Easton ADV 360 is prized for its 360-degree barrel tuning for precision across the entire barrel and the Louisville Slugger Solo is known for its ultra-balanced swing weight for ultimate swing speed, the Cat 9's multi-variable wall design and precision balancing mean it excels in providing young hitters with a powerful, yet manageable tool to enhance their game.

### Progression of the Marucci CAT 9 Baseball Bat:

  

Here is a list that details the progression of this series, highlighting the main features and advancements with each new model.

  

**2017 - [CAT7](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat-7/l7247) & CAT7 CONNECT**

-   CAT7 and CAT7 Connect are introduced, featuring the upgraded AZ4X alloy for improved performance.
    
-   CAT7 has a one-piece alloy construction, while CAT7 Connect offers a two-piece hybrid design with a carbon composite handle.
    
-   Both models feature an increased sweet spot and an upgraded anti-vibration knob (AV2).  
      
    

**2019 - [CAT8](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat8-2/l7709), 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.
    

  

### What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)

  

**PROS**

-   Great for kids who need to "feel the barrel" during their swing. The ball jumps off this bat well. It has never collapsed and provides enough feedback to know how you hit it. Vibration is only felt when hitting the handle.
    
-   "My 12-year-old son upgraded to a Marucci Cat 9 -5 bat from a 30" -8 bat and is hitting great with it. Although the bat is heavier, it is well-balanced and solid. Highly recommended for kids upgrading to a -5."
    
-   Bought the Cat 9 BBCOR bat for my 13-year-old son. It's well-balanced and has good pop for a one-piece. Vibration-resistant knob helps with miss hits. My son loves it and is hitting the ball well.
    

**CONS**

-   Good bat for my 10-year-old, but didn't hold up well in New England cold spring. Dead after one AAU season despite hard hits and dingers. Would have given 5 stars if it lasted longer.
    
-   My son used this bat for 1 season and it has multiple dents in it. He is 12 and weighs about 70 pounds. Thought I would get more than 1 season out of the bat.
    
-   Bought a bat for my 6-year-old son a year ago. It's good but lacks the power and balance of CATX Aluminum. Looking for sales to buy CATX.
    

  

### Certification: BBCOR

### Expert Notes ([Tony from BatExperts](https://sidelineswap.com/batexperts))

They took the same design from the CAT8 and strengthened the CAT9 with a stronger alloy to avoid any denting issues. It's a very good, durable bat. The CAT9 will be a bit heavier than the CAT8; it's a better bat for stronger kids. The first generation of the CAT9 came out with a gray, black, and red paint job. The second generation they called the Past Time, which was red, white, and blue. It's the same bat, but a different paint job. The second bat was more popular simply because of how it looked. Everyone likes the American Flag with its Stars and Stripes.  
  

Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

  
**Balanced** or End loaded?

## Marucci CAT Baseball Bat



The Marucci CAT is a bat designed for superior performance straight out of the wrapper. Engineered with a precision-balanced and ring-free barrel construction, the CAT series allows for maximum swing speed, control, and an expanded sweet spot for a more forgiving hit. From its ultra-responsive alloy to its ergonomically designed handle, every aspect of the Marucci CAT has been crafted to elevate a player's game and provide comfortable contact at the plate.

 
**Perfect bat for:** Young players looking for modern performance and extra comfort on contact. 



### Key features include: 




* **AZ105** Super Strength Aluminum Alloy:** Offers a thinner barrel wall for a higher response rate and increased durability.
* **Multi-Variable Wall Design:** Expands the sweet spot and reduces dead spots for more consistent performance across the barrel. 

**Anti-Vibration Knob:** Provides a better feel and reduces negative vibrational feedback to the hands, ensuring comfortable swings.
* **Precision-Balanced Barrel:** Results in a lower M.O.I. and balanced feel for precision and control.
* **Ring-Free Barrel Construction:** Allows for more barrel flex and increases performance without "dead" spots.
* **Micro-Perforated Soft-Touch Grip:** Enhances comfort and tack, promoting better control and reducing hand fatigue during swings.
* **One-Piece Alloy Construction:** Delivers a clean, consistent, traditional feel with built-in durability and performance.



### Top competitors comparison: [DeMarini CF](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/cf-20/l59398) and [Louisville Slugger Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)

Compared to leading competitors like the DeMarini CF and Louisville Slugger Meta, the Marucci CAT series distinguishes itself with its one-piece alloy construction and AZ105 Super Strength Aluminum Alloy, which offers hitters a traditional, yet highly responsive feel. While the DeMarini CF is known for its two-piece composite design that emphasizes flexibility and feel, and the Louisville Slugger Meta prides itself on its three-piece composite build for balance and speed, the Marucci CAT excels in delivering direct feedback, explosive power, and a classic feel, making it a solid choice for players who appreciate the simplicity and effectiveness of alloy bats.


###  Progression of the Marucci CAT series 


Here is a list that details the progression of this series, highlighting the main features and advancements with each new model.

**2014 - [CAT6](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat-6/l7498)**



* Building on the ring-free barrel design, Marucci releases the CAT6 with an extended, optimized barrel made from the AZ3000 alloy.
* Patented anti-vibration knob takes on additional weight for a more balanced feel and faster swing speeds.

**2017 - [CAT7](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat-7/l7247) & CAT7 CONNECT**



* CAT7 and CAT7 Connect are introduced, featuring the upgraded AZ4X alloy for improved performance.
* CAT7 has a one-piece alloy construction, while CAT7 Connect offers a two-piece hybrid design with a carbon composite handle.
* Both models feature an increased sweet spot and an upgraded anti-vibration knob (AV2). 


**2019 - [CAT8](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat8-2/l7709), 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](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat9-connect-3/l164210)**



* 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](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat-x-connect/l175804), and [CATX Composite](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat-x-composite/l175805)**



* 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**



* This bat is one of the best options available for young players. It is USA-regulated and commonly used in little league. It offers excellent control and feel and has a large sweet spot for hitting home runs.
* I bought a new bat for my son a month ago since he had outgrown his old one. The new bat is longer and heavier, and he's happy with it. His game has improved since he started using it.
* Marucci's bat is lightweight, durable, and has an old-school sound when solid contact is made. My son has been hitting great with it.

**CONS**



* I like Marucci bats, but this is the 3rd time I've bought one that's heavier than listed. Bought a 28" 17 oz 2022 USA Cat for my 8 y/o son, but it weighed 19.3 oz. Will keep trying with Marucci, but they all tend to be heavier than listed.
* Purchased a 29” 18oz. bat, but it weighed 20.3 oz.
* I bought this product for my son and when I asked him to rate it, he gave it four stars. He explained that he didn't give it five stars because he feels too much vibration upon hits and it doesn't have the best pop.


### **Certification**: USA


### Expert Notes ([Tony from BatExperts](https://sidelineswap.com/batexperts))

The Marucci CAT is designed for Little League. It has that USA stamp, which means it has a lightweight feel and good control. The CAT has an affordable price point, so it won't break the bank. A lot of parents get this bat specifically because it's a quality bat with a good bang for the buck.  


Pop: ⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐

 
<span style="text-decoration:underline;">**Mid-balanced**</span> or End loaded?

CAT9 Composite

## Marucci CAT9 Composite Baseball Bat

The Marucci CAT 9 Composite bat represents a significant advancement in Marucci's approach to building bats for players who prefer the feel and performance of fully composite construction. Unlike its alloy counterparts within the CAT series, the CAT 9 Composite provides a massive barrel and balanced swing. With a philosophy deeply rooted in the insights and needs of actual players, Marucci’s Cat 9 Composite bat showcases the brand’s proficiency at using cutting-edge materials to elevate the performance of players at any age.

**Perfect bat for:** Both contact and power hitters who don’t mind a barrel-heavy bat.


### Key features include:



* **Multi-Directional Composite Material:** Creates an ultra-responsive barrel that offers a significant performance advantage across the entire hitting surface.
* **Maximum Barrel Length:** Provides a larger sweet spot and enhances the potential for off-center hits to still travel far and fast.
* **SDX LT Connection:** Reduces vibration on contact, delivering a more comfortable hitting experience without sacrificing power on swing-through.
* **Ring-Free Barrel Construction:** Eliminates dead spots for a more consistent performance and allows players to take full advantage of the bat's technical design.
* **Micro-Perforated Soft-Touch Grip:** Ensures comfortable, secure handling even in rigorous play conditions, reducing hand fatigue and enhancing control.
* **Balanced Swing Weight:** Optimizes bat speed and control, offering a perfect blend for hitters who value precision as much as power.


### Top competitors comparison: [DeMarini CF Zen](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/cf-zen-2020/l8432) and the [Easton ADV 360](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/adv-360/l59709)

The Marucci Cat 9 Composite shines with its use of multi-directional composite materials, enabling a level of responsiveness and barrel performance that's hard to match. While the DeMarini CF Zen is praised for its consistently strong performance across the barrel and the Easton ADV 360 offers revolutionary 360-degree barrel tuning, the Cat 9 Composite distinguishes itself with a superior balance between speed, power, and comfort, courtesy of its meticulous engineering and vibration-dampening connection technology. This makes the Cat 9 Composite a top choice for youth players aiming to elevate their game with a bat that delivers fluidity and force in equal measure.


### Progression of the Marucci CAT 9 Composite Bat:

Here is a list that details the progression of this series, highlighting the main features and advancements with each new model.

**2017 - [CAT7](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat-7/l7247) & CAT7 CONNECT**



* CAT7 and CAT7 Connect are introduced, featuring the upgraded AZ4X alloy for improved performance.
* CAT7 has a one-piece alloy construction, while CAT7 Connect offers a two-piece hybrid design with a carbon composite handle.
* Both models feature an increased sweet spot and an upgraded anti-vibration knob (AV2). 


**2019 - [CAT8](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat8-2/l7709), 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), CAT9 Connect, [CAT9 Composite](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat9-composite-3/l164870)**



* 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.


### What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)

**PROS**



* It had a great balance and weight, which made it easy to swing and hit the ball with precision.
* Great pop and appearance. My son loves it. Easy to get good exit velo.
* Huge sweet spot and very durable. Has a great feel and sound to it. 

**CONS**



* A few hits scuff paint off bat.
* When it doesn’t get hit on the sweet spot it doesn’t go very far and stings.
* It's a lilttle pricey and i already broke it... but i am going to buy a new one


### **Certification**: USSSA, USA, and BBCOR


### Expert Notes ([Tony from BatExperts](https://sidelineswap.com/batexperts))

The CAT9 Composite comes in two designs across two generations. The first, released in 2021, is gray, black, and red. And then it came out in red, white, blue, and gray. The first model was a more powerful, higher-performing bat. It has more exit velocity and is a hotter bat than the 2nd gen. Very durable, with very little breakage. Marucci's, across the board, have been good bats in terms of quality; they seem to last. Whether you're a power hitter or a small kid, the CAT9 Composite does very well. 


Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
<span style="text-decoration:underline;">**Mid-Balanced**</span> or End loaded?

Reflex

### About the Easton Reflex

The one of a kind Easton Reflex is an inexpensive bat built for a solid feel. 

With an 7050 Aircraft alloy construction for maximum durability, a balanced swing weight for an improved feel, and an ultra-thin cushioned grip handle for added comfort, the Easton Reflex is designed for maximum durability and added comfort. 

### Easton Reflex - Key Features

- 7050 Aircraft Alloy Construction for maximum durability.
- Balanced swing weight for an improved feel.
- Ultra-thin cushioned grip handle for added comfort.

Model|Price|Built For|Construction
:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:
Easton Reflex|$|Maximum durability and added comfort|Aluminium

### Easton Reflex - Specs

- **Construction:** One-Piece
- **Material:** Aluminium
- **Barrel Material:** 7050 Aircraft Alloy
- **Swing Weight:** Balanced

Model|Construction|Material|Barrel Material|Swing Weight
:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:
Easton Reflex|One-Piece|Aluminium|7050 Aircraft Alloy|Balanced

### Other baseball bats by Easton similar to the Easton Reflex

If you like what the Easton Reflex has to offer, or are looking for something slightly different, check out other bats by Easton such as:

- [Easton S450](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/s450/l679)
- [Easton S500](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/s500/l7267)
- [Easton Stealth](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/stealth-10/l9198)

(-8.5) Baseball Bats - Page 8

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