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BBCOR Certified

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Rawlings

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Condition

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Composite

Hybrid

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Bat Material

High School & College

Age Group

2 5/8"

Barrel

2025

2024

2023

2022

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2020

2019

2017

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Unspecified

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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 Composite

## Marucci CAT X Composite Bat


The Marucci CAT X Composite is another innovative model within the Marucci CAT series, expanding the brand's offerings to players who prefer composite bats over alloy. Composite bats, known for their lighter weight and larger sweet spot, provide a different feel and performance compared to their alloy counterparts. Marucci's offerings, like the CAT X Composite bat, stand as a testament to the brand's unwavering pursuit of excellence in every swing.

**Perfect bat for:** Youth players looking for a bat that offers superior lightweight performance with a large sweet spot.


### Key features include:



* **Maximum Composite Performance:** Utilizes a precision-balanced, maximum composite barrel that delivers a larger sweet spot and higher overall performance.
* **MDX, Multi-Directional Composite:** Provides fine-tuned performance and weight distribution, ensuring a balanced feel for greater control and faster swing speeds.
* **Ring-Free Barrel Construction:** Allows for more barrel flex and increased performance with no "dead" spots, offering a consistent and powerful hitting surface.
* **Sting-Free Comfort Knob:** Features an ergonomic design that reduces vibration and improves comfort, allowing players to swing with confidence.
* **Two-Piece Composite Construction:** Delivers a smooth, responsive feel throughout the swing, enhancing control and reducing feedback on mishits.
* **Micro-Perforated Cushy Grip:** Ensures optimal grip and comfort, allowing for tighter control and minimizing hand fatigue during extended play.


### Top competitors comparison: The [Louisville Slugger Prime 919](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/prime-919/l9509) and the [DeMarini CF](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/demarini/cf-20/l59398)

The Marucci CAT X Composite distinguishes itself with its focused commitment to a balanced swing, control, and minimizing feedback, aimed especially at youth players. While Louisville Slugger’s Prime is known for its premium materials and balanced swing weight, and the DeMarini CF is celebrated for delivering top-notch performance with groundbreaking technology, the CAT X Composite stands out with its MDX, multi-directional composite engineering and sting-free comfort knob, ensuring a balanced, comfortable, and high-performing experience for the youth player moving up in the game.


### Progression of the Marucci CAT X Composite 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.

**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**



* Bought for son transitioning to BBCOR. Light and balanced. Good pop and sound. Great balanced BBCOR bat!
* Like cheating, it’s awesome! Whole barrel is super hot. 33” sweet spot
* Bat has huge sweet spot. Lots of pop!

**CONS**



* My son's bat grip is separating already. The bat lacks the usual sound of CatX or Cat8 bats. We paid extra for the grip, but it's coming apart fast. 
* The price doesn't deserve more than 4 stars, but we appreciate the fast shipping and the name engraving.
* Bought this bat for my 14 year old, felt good during batting practice, but the second he hit the ball in game it broke in half! 500 dollars down the drain.


### **Certification**: USSSA, BBCOR


### Expert Notes ([Tony](https://sidelineswap.com/locker/batexperts))

The CAT X Composite is very, very easy to swing. Not quite as popular as the CF in terms of performance. There are newer Marucci bats out there that are stronger, hotter-performing bats. But it's still a top top-tier bat. It's right up there with the CAT9 composite, but it doesn't get the notoriety because you've got some newer bats on the market with cooler paint jobs.

Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
**Mid-Balanced** or End loaded?

Meta Prime

# Louisville Slugger Meta Prime Baseball Bat



The Louisville Slugger Meta Prime series is a standout among high-performance baseball bats, known for its advanced technology and premium materials. Engineered for elite players, the Meta Prime boasts a three-piece composite design that optimizes the bat's swing weight while enhancing the trampoline effect off the barrel. This series exemplifies advanced technology working in harmony with more than a century of craftsmanship. 

The Louisville Slugger brand is steeped in baseball history, with a lineage stretching back to 1884. This iconic brand has been a part of baseball's greatest moments, continuously crafting bats that blend tradition with innovation.




**Perfect bat for:** Collegiate and high school players seeking a blend of power, speed, and reduced vibration. 



### Key features include: 




* **Revolutionary EKO™ Composite Barrel:** Offers the lightest swing weight in the Slugger lineup, paired with a huge sweet spot for maximum pop.
* **3FX™ Connection System:** Delivers a perfectly tuned ‘stiff’ feel on contact while dramatically reducing vibration.
* **Balanced Swing Weight:** Engineered for optimal swing speed and control, perfect for hitters seeking to improve their consistency and power.
* **VCX™ Vibration Control Connection System:** Allows independent movement between the barrel and handle, reducing vibration and improving feel on every hit.
* **RTX™ End Cap Design:** Creates a longer barrel with an improved sound on contact, making every hit satisfying. 



### 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 Louisville Slugger Meta Prime differentiates itself from the DeMarini CF Zen and the Easton ADV 360 through its unique EKO™ Composite Barrel and 3FX™ Connection System, offering a blend of lightweight performance and reduced vibration unmatched in the market. While the CF Zen is lauded for its balanced feel and the ADV 360 for its dynamic flexibility, the Meta Prime shines with its sophisticated three-piece construction, providing elite players with a level of precision and power that sets a new standard for what to expect from a high-performance bat. 



### Progression of the Meta Prime series: 

Here is a list that details the progression of this series, highlighting the main features and advancements with each new model.

 
 **2019 - [Louisville Slugger Meta Prime](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta-prime/l9512)**
- Introduction of the EKO™ composite barrel, designed for a light-swinging bat with a huge barrel and the truest sound in the game. 
- 3FX™ Connection System: Providing a perfectly tuned ‘stiff’ feel on contact while dramatically reducing vibration. 
- RTX™ End Cap: Designed to allow for our largest BBCOR barrel length. 
- Balanced swing weight for the ultimate combination of speed and power. | 
 
**2020 - [Louisville Slugger Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)**
- Continued use of EKO™ composite barrel technology. 
- Redesigned 3FX™ Connection System, enhancing the feel and reducing vibration more effectively. 
- Premium RTX™ End Cap design allows for maximum barrel length and swing speed. 
- Patented VCX™ Technology: Vibration Control Connection System allows for independent movement between the barrel and the handle, controlling vibration and providing unmatched feel on contact. 
- Slightly increased swing weight for added power. 
 
**2021 - [Louisville Slugger Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)**
- Enhanced EKO™ composite material for an even lighter barrel and improved swing speed. 
- GT1™ End Cap that maximizes barrel length and swing speed. 
- Refined 3FX™ Connection System further reduces vibration and provides a more ‘solid’ feel on contact. 
- Continued dedication to a perfectly balanced swing weight. 
 
**2022 - [Louisville Slugger Meta](https://sidelineswap.com/shop/baseball/bats/louisville-slugger/meta/l59403)**
- Further optimization of the EKO™ composite barrel for peak performance and swing speed. 
- Updated 3FX™ Connection System for an even better feel at contact. 
- New GT1™ End Cap to enhance barrel length and swing speed while maintaining control. 
 
 

## What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)

**PROS**



* This bat is amazing! Both my 18-year-old and 15-year-old love it. It produces more exit velocity than any other BBCOR bat we've used."
* My son owns both the Cat8 and the Meta. The Cat8 has decent pop, but nothing compared to the Meta. The sweet spot on the Meta is at least three times larger, and when he connects, the ball takes off.
* This bat is a tank. If you get this bat it will guarantee you 5 more exit velo.

**CONS**



* The grip is thick.
* Just the crazy price. But at this point, I'm numb to bat prices.
* Check to see if you can even use this bat, illegal for NCAA and NFHS play.


### **Certification**:

The Meta Prime is BBCOR-certified, making it legal for play in high school and collegiate levels. 


### Expert Notes (Parker) 

 


Pop: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Vibration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
**Balanced** or End loaded?

Maxum Ultra

### About Easton Maxum Ultra Baseball Bats

The classic Easton Maxum Ultra is a top-tier baseball bat specially designed for advanced-level players that require extra surface area and added mass.

With an XXL barrel for extra surface area, a re-balanced feel for added mass, and a end loaded swing for increased accuracy, the Easton Maxum Ultra has everything you need to take your game to the next level.

|Model|Price|Level of Play|Built For
|:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:
Easton Maxum Ultra|$$$$|Advanced|Extra surface area and added mass

### Easton Maxum Ultra - Key Features

- An XXL barrel for extra surface area.
- A re-balanced feel for added mass.
- A end loaded swing for increased accuracy.

### Easton Maxum Ultra - Specs

|Model|Barrel|Construction|Multivariable Design
|:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:
Easton Maxum Ultra|Composite|One-piece construction|Centered contact

- **Barrel:** Composite
- **Construction:** One-piece construction
- **Multivariable Design:** Centered contact

## 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: ⭐⭐⭐

 
**Mid-balanced** or End loaded?

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Marucci CATX Composite BBCOR (-3) Baseball Bat - 33

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