Citing Safety, Little League Changes Up Bat Requirements

Just because it's called Little League, that doesn't mean that the hits aren't big and powerful. In an effort to cut down the risks of injuries, and to even the playing field a bit, new bat requirements are in play this season, stripping away some of the higher-end composite bats.

With Opening Day scheduled for April 14, Al Rabinowitz, who serves as summer travel baseball director as well as the vice president of Westfield Baseball, outlined the new bat rules that are in effect for 2012.

CAL RIPKEN BASEBALL DIVISION (ages up-to and including 12 year olds)
The bat may not exceed 33”in length, and the bat barrel may not exceed 2 ¼” in diameter.  Only 2 ¼” barrel non-wood bats marked BPF 1.15 will be allowed.  Wood 2 ¼” barrel bats are allowed. 

13-15 BASEBALL DIVISION
The bat may not exceed 34” in length, and the bat barrel may not exceed 2 5/8” in diameter.  All aluminum/alloy barrel bats and all composite handle (only) aluminum/alloy barrels are allowed.  Only composite barrel bats certified and marked BBCOR .50 will be allowed.  Wood barrel bats conforming to the specifications of Official Baseball Rule 1.10 are allowed. 

16-18 BASEBALL DIVISION
The bat may not exceed 34” in length and the bat barrel many not exceed 2 5/8” in diameter or be greater than a -3 length to weight ratio.  Only metal/composite bats certified and marked BBCOR .50 are allowed.  Wood barrel bats conforming to the specifications of Official Baseball Rule 1.10 are allowed. 

PENALTY

• If the illegal bat is discovered prior to a batter completing his “at bat” the bat is simply removed from play and the “at bat” continues.
• A player who uses an illegal bat or non-conforming barrel dimension and hits a fair ball will be ruled out.  No advancement on the bases will be allowed, and any outs during the play shall stand.  This is an appeal play.  The “at bat” will be considered legal once a pitch is thrown to the next batter.
• Any bat discovered prior to the game that does not conform to the above rule shall be directed to be removed immediately and not be allowed for use during the game.

"They are doing all they can to limit how explosive the ball can come off the bat," Rabinowitz said. "It is a step in the right direction to improve the safety for the kids."

Rabinowitz said while players are not required to wear heart guards, it is strongly recommended.

For more information, visit the Westfield Baseball League's website.