Bats

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USSSA Certified

Bat Certification

Length

16OZ

18OZ

20OZ

21OZ

22OZ

23OZ

25OZ

25.5OZ

26OZ

27OZ

28OZ

29OZ

Other/Unknown

Weight

Other / Unknown

Drop

DeMarini

Louisville Slugger

Marucci

Brand

Used

Condition

Alloy

Composite

Bat Material

Kid Pitch (9YO-13YO)

Age Group

2023

Release Year

Black

Color

Meta

##  Louisville Slugger Meta Baseball Bat


The Louisville Slugger Meta series is at the forefront of technological innovation in baseball bats, offering players a high-performance combination of power and balance. Featuring Louisville Slugger’s patented 3FX Connection System and EKO™ Composite Barrel technology, the Meta delivers an explosive energy transfer. This bat also delivers a stiff feel with minimal vibration—and a massive sweet spot.

**Perfect bat for**: Young players unlocking their power in the batter's box, who want a lightweight design with a maximized barrel size.

 



### Key features include: 




* **EKO™ Composite Barrel:** Engineered for a light swinging weight and maximum barrel performance, producing a unique combination of speed and power.
* **3FX Connection System:** Provides a stiff feel on contact while significantly reducing vibration to the hands, ensuring maximum comfort and control.
* **Premium LS Pro Comfort Grip™:** Added to handle for added tack and cusion.
* **GT1™ End Cap:** Maximizes barrel length and swing speed, ensuring that players can make the most of their natural power.
* **Revolutionary Three-Piece Design:** Combines advanced materials and innovative technologies to offer a bat with unmatched feel, performance, and durability. 



### Top competitors comparison: [DeMarini CF Zen](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/cf-zen-2020/l8432) and [Easton ADV 360](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/adv-360/l59709)

The Louisville Slugger Meta distinguishes itself from competitors like the DeMarini CF Zen and Easton ADV 360 by offering a superior balance of lightweight performance and powerful precision. While the CF Zen is known for its Paraflex Plus Composite construction for flexibility and balance, and the ADV 360 features two-piece ConneXion+ technology for energy transfer, the Meta’s EKO™ Composite Barrel and 3FX Connection System create a perfect harmony of speed, power, and control not found in other models, setting it apart as the ultimate choice for serious athletes. 



### Progression of the Louisville Slugger Meta Series

Here is a list that details the progression of this series, highlighting the main features and advancements with each new model.

**2019 - [Meta Prime](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta-prime/l9512)** 
- Introduced 3FX™ Connection System, designed to reduce vibration and provide a perfect feel upon contact. 
- EKO™ Composite Barrel, offering a light-swinging bat with a massive sweet spot. 
 - RTX End Cap design maximizes barrel shape and improves the sound on contact. 
 
**2020 - [Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)**   
- Continued with the popular 3FX™ Connection System and EKO™ Composite Barrel. 
- Introduction of the Premium GT1™ end cap that maximizes barrel length and swing speed. 
- The 2020 model became known for its "EJUICE" technology, which created a highly responsive and massive sweet spot. 
- The bat was noted for exceptional balance and a significant reduction in hand sting. 
 
**2021 - [Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)**   
- Upgraded with the new VCX2™ Vibration Control Connection System, enhancing the feel and reducing vibration more effectively. 
- Retained EKO™ Composite Barrel for a light-swinging bat with a massive sweet spot. - Premium GT1™ end cap as introduced in 2020 continues, optimizing barrel length and swing speed. 
 
**2022 - [Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)**  
- New F2X Performance end cap design, enhancing barrel flexibility, and maximizing the sweet spot. 
- Continued improvements on the VCX2™ Vibration Control Connection System for enhanced feel. 
- EKO™ Composite Barrel technology persists, ensuring a lightweight feel with a large sweet spot. 
- Marketed also for its balanced swing weight, catering to contact and power hitters alike. 
 
**2023 - [Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)**  
- The latest Meta integrates all previous technologies while focusing on even greater balance and a faster swing speed without sacrificing power. 
- Materials and design updates aim to increase the sweet spot further and enhance the bat's feel during contact. 
- Continued refinement of the VCX2™ Vibration Control Connection System for optimal stiffness and flexibility, reducing hand sting. 


### What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)

**PROS**



* This bat has a fantastic feel, sound, and performance on miss-hits. It boasts one of the largest sweet spots in BBCOR. Although it lacks feedback, it is very easy to swing.
* Great feel and pop. Although I usually change grips, the stock grip on this bat is solid. The durability is very impressive as well, as the bat has already outlasted most others.
* No failures on Meta bats except cosmetic chips. They perform better than new. High school varsity team used 32-3 for 2 years without issues. Change grip tape yearly and keep hitting!

**CONS**



* The finish will chip if hit against spikes.
* It's expensive.... and not crazy about the color.
* This bat has no pop.


### **Certification**: BBCOR, USSSA


### Expert Notes (Parker)

The Louisville Slugger Meta is still a slightly newer model. The meta is similar to the DeMarini CF which offers a lightweight composite handle with a huge barrel made for every sort of hitter. A popular series that offers great jump-off-the-barrel when you hit the sweet spot and keeps the sting off your hands when the ball is missed on the cap or handle. 


Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
<span style="text-decoration:underline;">**Mid-balanced**</span> or End loaded?

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?

## 22. DeMarini Zoa Bat

The Zoa was DeMarini’s first baseball bat to feature Continuous Fiber Technology. Launched in 2022, it’s crafted to deliver a combination of power, balance, and barrel performance for elite players at the high school and college levels. Established by Ray DeMarini in 1989, DeMarini is known for their technological innovations and passion for bat design. The brand embodies the spirit of both amateur and professional players aiming to elevate their game, and the DeMarini Zoa is a testament to this legacy, showcasing a commitment to pushing the boundaries of bat design. 

**Perfect bat for:** Elite high school and collegiate players seeking a composite bat that provides a large hitting area without sacrificing a light swing weight.


### Key features include:



* **Continuous Fiber Composite Barrel:** Crafted for a lighter, more durable barrel with a massive sweet spot for unparalleled power and consistency.
* **Direct Connection Handle:** Offers superior energy transfer and a stiff feel on contact, designed for players who crave immediate feedback with each swing.
* **ReAction End Cap:** Increases barrel performance without sacrificing swing speed, optimizing the balance between power and control.
* **Two-Piece Composite Construction:** Delivers a blend of speed and power, allowing for maximum bat speed and a more efficient energy transfer.
* **Anomaly End Cap:** This precision-engineered end cap complements the Zoa's lightweight design, ensuring a blend of speed and balance that's rare in high-performance bats.


### Top competitors comparison: [Louisville Slugger Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403) and the [Easton Maxum Ultra](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/maxum-ultra/l165626)
 
The DeMarini Zoa sets itself apart with its Continuous Fiber Composite Barrel, offering a unique blend of durability, power, and a vast sweet spot. While the Louisville Slugger Meta is renowned for its EKO composite barrel, emphasizing a combination of swing speed and barrel control, and the Easton Maxum Ultra is favored for its seamless carbon construction providing the longest barrel in the game, the Zoa specializes in delivering a high-performance hitting experience with enhanced feedback and energy transfer, making it a prime choice for competitive players aiming to maximize their impact at the plate.


### Progression of the DeMarini Zoa Baseball Bat:


Here is a list that details the progression of this series, highlighting the main features and advancements with each new model.

**2022 - [Zoa BBCOR](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/zoa/bat-type-bbcor/l259878)** 
- Continuous Fiber Composite Barrel for consistent performance 
- Direct Connection handle system for increased stiffness and energy transfer 
- Gapped Wall technology to maximize barrel performance  
 
**2023 - [Zoa Glitch](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/zoa-glitch/l347741)** 
- Updated end cap for improved balance and swing speed  
- New colorway


### What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)


**PROS**



* My son just got a new bat to replace his META and it's great! It's hot out of the wrapper, has a forgiving barrel and almost no vibration. He absolutely crushed the ball. We can't wait to see how it performs when it's fully broken in.
*  If you like end-loaded bats, this one has surprising pop with low noise. It feels good when squared up and I personally love it. My rating is 8/10. 
* "This bat increased my exit velocity and feels smooth when swinging. It's the best bat I've ever used."

**CONS**



* This bat is heavy and can be hard to locate the barrel. I recommended for very strong players. If you swing a drop 5 alloy, try a drop 8 Zoa.
* Sounds dead. My son hates it. We bought this bat because of the good reviews. Its expensive and has no pop.
* Only downside is that the weather needs to be warmer or it will crack the bat due to it being all composite.

 


### **Certification**: BBCOR


### Expert Notes ([Tony](https://sidelineswap.com/locker/batexperts))

The Zoa has a strong barrel and connection, making it a heavier, end loaded bat overall. Your smaller players don't get the same bat speed or same performance with that Zoa as they do with the CF. The Zoa is one of those power hitter two-piece composites. 


Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
Mid-Balanced or <span style="text-decoration:underline;">**End loaded**</span>?

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Seller Type

Used Louisville Slugger (-5) 28 oz 31" Meta Bat

(Used)

DeMarini Zoa (-5) 28 oz 31" (Used)

2023 Marucci USSSA Certified CAT9 (-5) Alloy 28 oz 31" (Used)

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