Expert: Dennis Girardi - 8/17/2007

Question
I have a 7 year old that is stepping up to play select ball (per his request).  He has been playing with a fairly standard -- and cheaper -- aluminum bat (27", 16oz).  I am seeing that the other kids are playing with much more sophisticated bats (double linings, composites, etc.).  We have no problem with the costs, but what makes sense to buy and actually adds anything?

Also, I note that in tournaments, they allow the kids to play with bigger barrel bats.  Assuming we can get one without adding to the weight, does that help?

Answer
Hey Jeff,

A bigger barrel bat only helps if your son swings and misses a lot of pitches. If it ain't broken, then don't fix it.  If your son is making good contact, don't change anything.  You don't want him to start popping up a bunch of pitches cause he has a bat with a big barrel.  They're only allowed to use a big barreled bat because of his age.  When he gets older, those big barrels can not be used.
Stick with the regular bat. When he gets older, you'll be glad he did.
Dennis