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BBCOR Certified

Training Bats

Bat Certification

Length

26OZ

28OZ

29OZ

30OZ

Weight

-8.5

-11.5

Drop

Marucci

Victus

DeMarini

Easton

Louisville Slugger

Brand

Used

Condition

Alloy

Hybrid

Composite

Maple

Bat Material

High School & College

Kid Pitch (9YO-13YO)

Age Group

2 1/4"

2 5/8"

2 3/4"

Barrel

2025

2024

2023

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

2013

Unspecified

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?

The Goods

## DeMarini The Goods Baseball Bat


The Goods series has become a popular addition to DeMarini’s lineup. With a hybrid “Half + Half” construction that merges a powerful alloy barrel with a composite handle, The Goods series is dedicated to providing a unique blend of weight distribution and power. The bat caters to power hitters looking for a significant end-loaded swing weight and maximum energy transfer. Featuring a unique X14 Alloy Barrel for maximum stiffness with a massive sweet spot, the bat is dedicated to generating unparalleled pop.

  
  

Perfect bat for: Players who want an end-loaded swing weight to dominate the field with sheer hitting power.  
  

### Key features include:  
  

-   X14 Alloy Barrel: Engineered for maximum stiffness and a massive sweet spot, ensuring explosive power on contact.
    
-   Half + Half Technology: Combines a stiff composite handle with an alloy barrel for optimum weight distribution and reduced vibration.
    
-   Direct Connection: Offers a solid feel, maximizing energy transfer to the ball for powerful swings.  
    Tremor End Cap: Made from the stiffest materials in the DeMarini line, contributing to explosive pop and unmatched durability.
    
-   Heavy Swing Weight: Designed for power hitters looking for maximum momentum and force at impact.
    
-   Fortified Metal Compound Knob: A combination of alloy and composite materias to deliver enhanced durability and allow for improved leverage.  
      
    

### Top competitors comparison: The [Louisville Slugger Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403) and the [Easton Maxum](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/easton/maxum-ultra/l165626)

  

Compared to competitors like the Louisville Slugger Meta and the Easton Maxum, DeMarini The Goods differentiates itself with its focused design on maximizing power. While the Meta is known for its balanced swing and the Maxum for its extended barrel, The Goods aims to provide a combination of a heavy swing weight and a stiff barrel, catered towards hitters who prioritize distance and force over everything else. This laser-focused design on power makes The Goods a standout choice for serious sluggers.  
  

### Progression of The Goods series:

  

Here is a list that details the progression of this series, highlighting the main features and advancements with each new model.

  

**2020 - [DeMarini The Goods](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/the-goods/l59750)**  
- Introduction of the X14 Alloy Barrel: A massive barrel designed for maximum stiffness and explosive sound.  
- Direct Connection: This feature was designed to provide a more direct transfer of energy and a stiffer feel on contact, appealing to power hitters.  
- Seismic End Cap: Made of the stiffest materials in the DeMarini lineup, this cap helps to deliver explosive energy transfer upon contact.  
  
**2021 - [DeMarini The Goods](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/the-goods/l59750)**  
- Continued use of X14 Alloy Barrel and Direct Connection features for optimized performance.  
- Introduction of Half + Half Technology: A continuation of DeMarini’s innovative approach, combining a composite handle and an alloy barrel for a perfect blend of speed, power, and feel.  
- Enhanced Seismic End Cap: Improved materials for better energy transfer and durability.  
  
**2022 - [DeMarini The Goods](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/the-goods/l59750)**  
- Refinement of the Half + Half Technology, allowing for an even greater energy transfer and reduced vibration.  
- Enhanced Direct Connection with reinforced structures for a stiffer, more responsive feel.  
- X14 Alloy Barrel: Further optimized for a larger sweet spot and explosive performance. - Upgraded Seismic End Cap: Continued enhancements for improved sound and feel upon contact.  
  

### What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)

**PROS**

-   My son hit three home runs with the Goods bat at a college prospect camp this weekend. He says the current version feels amazing and is the best one yet.
    
-   I upgraded to this bat from my broken 2022 Goods. It has phenomenal pop and is the best in the Goods line.
    
-   This bat bangs!!! I bought this bat three weeks ago and this barrel is huge!
    

**CONS**

-   My son loved this bat from day one. After three weeks of use the plastic piece where the shaft meets the barrel cracked. Definitely expect something better than this for $450. Haven't started the warranty process yet so we'll see how that goes.
    
-   The bat handle now telescopes into the barrel after the junction cracked. We had expected better quality for the price and it's hard to accept a replacement that arrives 2-3 weeks later at best.
    
-   Bat bought 2 months ago broke when I dropped it. It's a good bat but not very durable. Connector piece broke and it telescoped.
    

  

### Certification: USSSA, USA, BBCOR

### Expert Notes ([Tony from BatExperts](https://sidelineswap.com/batexperts))

The Goods is a top performer and the 2024 model is the most expensive hybrid bat on the market. It's an end loaded bat for that power hitter in your lineup. The alloy is strong, and it has a good whip to it. Overall, The Goods is in the top five in the hybrids for both BBCOR and youth. The youth was less popular because it was a heavier-feeling.

  
  

Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

  
Balanced 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?

### About the Marucci F5

The precision made Marucci F5 is a value bat built for exceptional durability. 

With AZ4X aluminum alloy construction for increased power, a multi-variable wall design for an expanded sweet spot, and a custom micro-perforated soft touch grip for added comfort, the Marucci F5 is designed for increased power and added comfort. 

### Marucci F5 - Key Features

- AZ4X aluminum alloy Construction for increased power.
- Multi-variable wall design for an expanded sweet spot.
- Custom micro-perforated soft touch grip for added comfort.

Model|Price|Built For|Construction
:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:
Marucci F5|$$|increased power and added comfort|Aluminium

### Marucci F5 - Specs

- **Construction:** One-Piece
- **Material:** Aluminium
- **Barrel Material:** AZ4X aluminum alloy
- **Swing Weight:** Balanced

Model|Construction|Material|Barrel Material|Swing Weight
:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:
Marucci F5|One-Piece|Aluminium|AZ4X aluminum alloy|Balanced

### Other baseball bats by Marucci similar to the Marucci F5

If you like what the Marucci F5 has to offer, or are looking for something slightly different, check out other bats by Marucci such as:

- [Marucci CAT 7](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat-7/l7247)
- [Marucci Posey28](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/posey28/l9995)
- [Marucci CAT 8](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/marucci/cat-8/l7709)

### Product Description 

Calling all power hitters: the Marucci AP5 Pro is a wooden bat that’s built for power, featuring a large, explosive barrel that’s designed for big hits. The AP5 also has a tapered knob and handle that allow for more control in the hands while maintaining an end-loaded feel. The bat itself is crafted from the highest-quality maple. This bat is recommended for elite players, particularly those who have experience hitting with wood bats.

Hype Comp

CAT9 Connect

## Marucci CAT9 Connect Baseball Bat

The Marucci CAT 9 Connect is an evolution within the Marucci CAT series, specifically designed to cater to hitters who prefer a slightly end-loaded feel and the additional power that comes with a two-piece bat construction. This model integrates Marucci’s latest technology to enhance performance, reduce vibration, and provide a comfortable hitting experience. 

By focusing intently on the needs and feedback of players, Marucci has cultivated a reputation for creating bats that deliver unmatched performance and durability. The Cat 9 Connect combines state-of-the-art technology with a deep understanding of what players truly need to succeed on the field.

**Perfect bat for:** Competitive high school and college players who demand a bat that offers a more end-loaded feel for maximum power—without sacrificing swing speed.


### Key features include:



* **Two-Piece Hybrid Construction:** Combines a carbon composite handle with an AZR alloy barrel for a reduced vibration on contact and a more comfortable, controlled swing.
* **Outer-Locking System (OLS):** Marucci's exclusive connection technology enhances stiffness and energy transfer by creating a tighter connection between the barrel and handle.
* **AZR Alloy Barrel:** Engineered for increased responsiveness and durability, offering a better feel and more forgiveness with every swing.
* **Power-Loaded Barrel:** Tailored for power hitters, providing an end-loaded swing weight that enhances force without compromising bat speed.
* **Micro-Perforated Soft-Touch Grip:** Ensures superior tack and cushion for improved handling and reduced hand fatigue during long batting sessions.
* **Professionally Inspired Handle:** Features a removable taper and an ergonomic knob shape for improved control and comfort.


### Top competitors comparison: [DeMarini Voodoo](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/voodoo/l7333) and the [Louisville Slugger Select PWR](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/select-pwr/l164317) 
 
The Marucci Cat 9 Connect sets itself apart with its Outer-Locking System (OLS), providing an unmatched blend of stiffness and energy transfer. While the DeMarini Voodoo is known for its two-piece hybrid design that emphasizes a balanced swing for hitters who want both power and speed, and the Louisville Slugger Select PWR offers a three-piece design for enhanced swing control and reduced vibration, the Cat 9 Connect specializes in delivering a potent combination of speed, power, and precision, making it a formidable choice for players aiming for home runs.


### Progression of the Marucci CAT 9 Connect 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**



* My son enjoyed using. It did not cause any pain and had decent hitting power.
* This bat is a great buy with a lot of pop and no stinging. It has a fast swing and is well-balanced, improving confidence. Kids will love it for little league. 
* Well balanced, no shock, decent pop. My 9 year old likes the added two inches compared to his previous bat. Likes that it doesn’t rattle his hands. Very pleased for the price 

**CONS**



* I purchased this bat for my 9-year-old son to use in little league. Sadly, it did not last long and got cracked in the same weak spot as many other bats.
* The bat snapped in 1/2 while my 9 year old son was hitting.
* My 8 year old son hit very well with it until is snapped in half.


### **Certification**: BBCOR


### Expert Notes ([Tony from BatExperts](https://sidelineswap.com/batexperts))

The CAT9 Connect is going to be in the same market as the Select Power, The Goods, and the Voodoo. It's a two-piece hybrid alloy barrel with a composite handle. It's a top-three bat for me. Very good performer and very popular. Just a great overall product. 


Pop: ⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
Balanced or <span style="text-decoration:underline;">**End loaded**</span>?

2021 Baseball Bats

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