Why Do Pro Baseball Players Use Wood Bats?
Though metal and alloy bats are now available, many baseball purists argue that wooden bats provide a better playing experience. There are many reasons why wooden bats are still used among professional and amateur players.
Let’s take a closer look at why they use wooden bats in pro baseball.
Wooden Bats are Safer
There have been many debates on whether or not wooden bats are safer than metal bats. Metal bats have been known to shatter and send shards of metal flying, which can be very dangerous for both players and fans. Wooden bats, on the other hand, are much less likely to shatter and cause injury.
So, if you’re looking for a safe option for your next game, consider using a wooden bat. Not only will you be keeping yourself and those around you safe, but you’ll also be supporting American jobs – as wooden bats are typically made in the USA.
Gives More of an Advantage To The Pitcher
Many experts believe that wooden bats may give hitters a slight disadvantage. This is because wooden bats are more likely to break when they make contact with the ball, while metal bats tend to be more durable and can withstand more impact.
Wooden bats also tend to be heavier than their metal counterparts, making them harder to swing, leading to less power and accuracy when hitting the ball.
Challenging & Requires More Skill
When it comes to hitting a baseball, using a wooden bat requires more skill and timing than using an aluminum bat. Aluminum bats are much easier to swing and make contact with the ball, but they don’t provide the same power as a wooden bat.
Wooden bats are also more challenging to control. Because they are heavier, they require more strength to swing and keep on course. If you don’t have strong wrists and arms, you may find it difficult to use a wooden bat effectively.
Advantages of Aluminum Bats
1. Tends to be lighter than other bats, making them easier to swing.
2. Tends to be more durable than other bats, meaning they will last longer.
3. It can also help to increase the speed at which a ball is hit due to its lighter weight.
4. They are often less expensive, making them a more budget-friendly option for many players.
Do Wooden Bats Come In Different Colors?
The color of a bat can be any color that the team wants it to be as long as it meets the league’s standards for safety and durability. The most popular colors are natural wood tones, black, brown, and gray. Some teams will paint their bats to match their team colors, while others simply use white or cream-colored bats.
How Do They Make Wooden Bats?
1. It all starts with a single piece of wood. Once the wood is selected, it is cut into the rough shape of a bat using a saw or lathe. The most common wood used for baseball bats is maple, but ash and birch are popular choices.
2. From there, the bat is sanded down to its final shape and size. The barrel – the wide part of the bat – is usually 2.75 to 2.875 inches in diameter, while the handle – the narrow part of the bat – is typically 0.5 to 0.625 inches in diameter.
3. Once the bat is the correct size and shape, it is time to add the grip. A leather or synthetic grip is wrapped around the bat’s handle to help provide a comfortable grip and prevent slippage.
4. The bat is ready for use! Wooden bats are often treated with a coating of oil or varnish to help protect them from the elements and extend their lifespan.
Making The Switch From Aluminum To Wood Bats
Switching to wooden bats can be a big adjustment for any baseball or softball player. After all, aluminum and composite bats have been the standard for so long. But there are plenty of reasons to make the switch.
The first thing you need to do is research the different types of wooden bats that are available. There are many different brands and styles, so you’ll want to find one that feels comfortable in your hands and suits your hitting style.
Once you’ve found the perfect bat, it’s time to start practicing with it. Wooden bats are heavier than their aluminum counterparts, so you’ll need to get used to the weight difference. Swing slowly in the beginning to get a feel for the bat. As you become more comfortable, you can start swinging harder.
Practicing your batting stance and swing with a wooden bat is also important. You may find that you need to make some adjustments to your technique. But once you’ve got it down, you’ll hit the ball further than ever.
What Exactly Is a Corked Bat?
A corked bat is a baseball bat filled with cork or another type of light, spongy material to make it lighter and easier to swing. While a corked bat may give a hitter a slight advantage, it can also break more easily and cause injuries. This practice was once common in Major League Baseball but has since been banned.
Where Can I Buy A Wood Baseball Bat?
You can purchase a wood baseball bat from many different retailers, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. Some of the most popular places to buy wood bats include big box stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods and sporting goods stores like Modell’s.
You can also purchase wood bats from online retailers like Amazon and eBay. When choosing a retailer, it is important to consider the quality they sell and the price.
Conclusion
We’ve looked at many reasons baseball players might prefer swinging wooden bats over their metal counterparts. Wooden bats are more traditional, have a more solid feel, and tend to be more forgiving on mis-hits. They also produce a slightly different sound when they contact the ball, which some players find more satisfying.
If you’re considering switching to wooden bats, it’s worth trying them to see if they help you take your game to the next level. Ultimately, though, it comes down to personal preference. Some players feel more comfortable and confident swinging a wooden bat, which can make all the difference in their performance on the field.
