BASEBALL BAT REVIEWS

Easton has been the leader in composite bats for the last several years. They’ve come out with two new 100% composite models for 2009:

• The Stealth IMX: Two piece bat, 100% composite bat with increased handle flex. The increased flex stays true to the Stealth bat tradition (the so-called trampoline effect). The Stealth IMX comes in two other youth models Power Hitter and LCN11. The only difference is the length to weight ration.
• The Synergy IMX: One piece bat, 100% composite bat with a stiff handle. Easton added stiff handles last year to combat Louisville, as they push the “benefits” of stiff handle bats.

Two excellent 100% composite bat options for the experienced player. On last year’s model’s, most went with the siff handle design. It’s simply a personal choice.

Easton offers these 50% composite /50% aluminum and 100% aluminum models for 2009:

• SV12: two piece bat, a 100% composite handle with a 100% alloy barrel. Even more handle flex than the Stealth IMX. If the price for this is anywhere near the IMX take the IMX. If it’s anywhere near the V12, take this bat.
• V12: One piece bat, 100% alloy bat. The stiffest handle Easton makes. This should be the lowest priced of the new Easton bats. It’s a great choice for the younger, inexperienced player or those who are more fiscally responsible. Assuming it is the lowest priced of the bunch.

Easton 100% alloy bats:

• Stealth CNT: Two piece, 100% alloy bat with either a stiff or flex handle (different colors and model numbers). This was Easton’s bread and butter for several years. It’s being pushed to the side as they focus on composite/hybrid bats. Hence, the price for the Stealth CNT has been reduced. This bat competed head to head with the Louisville Exogrid for several years, but Louisville has not reduces the price of the Exogrid because they’re behind in the composite category. So there’s no debate, if you want a high end 100% composite bat THIS IS IT.

• Easton makes several other models, such as Titan, Reflex and Rampage which are all 100% allowy. The Titan has the newer alloy (Sc900), but the Relex and Rampage have 7050 alloy which has been around for 15 years. These are fine for the youngest players. A high schooler would be laughed at if he went to the plate with one of these.

See the My Recommendations tab for the top recommendations in each bat category.