What is a good bat length and drop weight?

My son is 14 yrs old and 6'1" tall and weights 219 lbs. He is very strong and I was wondering if you could help with a possible bat length and drop?

Baseball Equipment Review's Answer
January 25, 2010

Hello, and thanks for the question. It sounds like your son is a hoss for being only 14! That's good! It always gets the scouts' attention :)

The first thing you need to do is figure out what the bat rules are for the league you are playing in if you haven't already. Check out the link to that page if you need help.

Then, I'd figure out what length of bat he wants. Since he's 14 he may or may not be in a league that allows a drop greater than -3. If so, the "senior league" bat market will be open to you. Here you have a myriad of drop options available, from about -5, all the way up to -10 or even more. If he's in a league where "senior league" (drops greater than -3) models are allowed, then the maximum length available to him will be 32" which may be right about what he wants for his age and strength.

If he's in a league where only "adult" (drops of only -3) models are permitted, than the selection of weight goes out the window, but then you will have length options greater than 32". At his age, I think I was using a 32" bat, but can't remember what drop. After figuring out the rules of your league, I'd go to the bat store, and try swining a few models, and just see what feels comfortable to him.

The only suggestion I give on length is to get the longest model you can get that will not sacrifice one bit of bat speed. BAT SPEED is really what it's all about. Even though he's strong, make sure he doesn't get some long, heavy log that sacrifices bat speed

You may also want to check out my page on baseball bat size for more info. Those are my suggestions. Hope that helps, and let me know if you have any more questions.

Brandon
Baseball Equipment Review