We made it. With the new year in full swing, the team at JustBats wanted to recap what a great year 2016 was and share our most popular blog posts, just in case you missed 'em.
There is a great chance you weren't able to read every article we published this year, or from previous years for that matter. To ensure that you don't feel left out, we've compiled our 10 best blog posts based on customer feedback, views, and comments.
10. Bats: Balanced Versus End Loaded
There is a vast amount of baseball bats and softball bats to choose from these days. How do you know which one is right for you? A determining factor when picking out your next bat is whether it will be balanced or end loaded. With in-depth descriptions comparing the two swing weights, this article will help you decide which type of bat is right for you or your player. If you're a contact hitter, don't forget to check out the most popular balanced bats. Or, if you consider yourself a heavy hitter, shop these highly reviewed end loaded bats.
9. The Hardest Position In Baseball
Is it a pitcher? How about the catcher? It may even be infielders or outfielders. Maybe it's the designated hitter (just kidding). JustBats lays out each position and why it may or may not be the hardest position in baseball. Join in on the debate and let us know which position you believe is the most demanding, both mentally and physically. Basically, let's have fun!
8. Bat Spotlight: 2017 Rawlings Quatro
The "glow stick" bat that everyone is talking about. Available in BBCOR, senior league, and a fastpitch softball bat, the Quatro is taking diamonds across the nation by storm. Rawlings is changing the game through technology with this model and the Quatro is guaranteed to be one of the hottest bats for the 2017 season. Watch the Rawlings Quatro technical video for an overview on the industry leading features.
7. How To Flare A Baseball Glove
What's a bat without a glove, right? You may be reading the JustBats Blog, but our friends over at JustBallGloves.com know what it takes to flare a glove. This how-to guide walks you through the process of flaring out the tips of the thumb and pinky finger stalls to create a flat and shallow pocket. The perfect design for those infielders looking to increase the speed of their transitions and make the next big defensive play. For those of you who want a normal break in, check out the JustBallGloves glove resource guide for tips and tricks on how to properly care for and break in your next glove.
This article may have been published back in 2012, but it is still relevant in todays world of slow pitch softball bats. As of October 1st, 2012, the Amateur Softball Association changed the way they test their bats for play. With the change came a new stamp that is now required for play in all ASA certified leagues. Learn the ins and outs of the rule change and how softball bats are tested for approval. Don't forget, if you are ever confused about whether or not your bat is legal for play, our Bat Experts are available at 866-321-BATS (2287) and are more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
5. One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Bats
Which type of bat is right for your hitting style? In baseball and softball, bats are either a one-piece construction or a two-piece construction (with the exception of some three-piece and four-piece designs). Is one better than the other? What kind of player should be swinging a one-piece bat and what kind should be swinging a two-piece? This article details the facts to help you make the most informed decision possible.
4. New Youth Baseball Bat Standard (USABat) - Effective Jan. 1, 2018
For many parents, the new youth baseball bat standard is frustrating. But, the good news is, the rule change does not go into effect until January 1st of 2018. This post answers the question, "What will the USABat standard change and why?" Plus, it gives a rundown of the national organizations that will be affected. We will continue to update this post as new information is released to help alleviate some of that anxiety and frustration with the new standard. Don't forget, if you ever have any additional questions or requests, our knowledgable Bat Experts are available via phone at 866-321-BATS (2287), email (experts@justbats.com), or live chat!
3. Breaking In Your Composite Baseball Bat
With the emergence of new composite materials, more and more manufacturers are requiring less and less of a break in period when it comes to composite bats. But, here at JustBats, we still recommend about 150 swings off of a tee or soft toss to help break in any composite bat and get it on its way to maximum performance. This how-to guide includes a quick video that demonstrates what needs to be done for the whole process. Remember, we're here for you from click to hit!
2. What is BBCOR and What Does BBCOR Mean to Me?
To summarize, BBCOR stands for "Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution." This may sound like a bunch of mumbo jumbo but BBCOR is the standard that regulates the National Federation of State High Scfhool Associations (NFHS) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). A 2 5/8 inch barrel diameter and a -3 length to weight ratio are mandatory on a BBCOR certified baseball bat. Plus, they must not exceed 36 inches in length. Whether you are playing at the high school or collegiate level (and some middle school leagues), you will be required to swing a BBCOR bat. Still unsure of whether or not you need to use a BBCOR bat? Let us help!
1. Composite Bat Customer Questions
Two of our top three posts from 2016 deal with composite bats, so you guys must really love them. At JustBats, we receive all sorts of questions about bat care, break-in periods, performance, and durability. So, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions by you, the customer, and answered them to the best of our ability. The following questions are all answered in this Q&A session.
- What is a composite bat mde of?
- Do I need to break in my composite bat?
- How do I break in a composite bat?
- Can I roll or shave my composite bat?
- Can I use a composite bat in cold weather?
- Why do composite bats cost more than alloy or wood bats?
If you have a question about composite bats that you don't see above, remember to give our Bat Experts a call at any time of the day at 866-321-BATS (2287).
Well, there you have it. The top 10 articles from the JustBats blog in 2016. But, with so many other great articles, don't forget to check out the archives! We look forward to the new year and hope that you continue to join us in our journey in the baseball bat and softball bat world. If you have any topics that you would like to hear more about, please leave a comment below. Or, if you would like the best deals, information, contests, and more on bats sent directly to you via email, please step up to the plate!
