In baseball, a bat is a round, smooth stick used in hitting the ball after the ball is thrown by the pitcher. It is not more than 2 3/4 inches (70 mm) in diameter at the thickest part and not more than 42 inches (1067 mm) in length. The batter uses the bat in an attempt to hit a pitched ball fair so that he may become a runner, advance bases, and ultimately score a run or help preceding runners to score.

Although it is a somewhat simple concept—a stick to hit a ball with, the bat is a complex object. It is carved or constructed very carefully to allow for a quick balanced swing, while providing power. The bat is divided into several regions. The barrel is the thick part of the bat, where the bat is meant to hit the ball. The part of the barrel best for hitting the ball with — due to construction and swinging style — is often called the sweet spot. The end of the barrel is not part of the sweet spot, and is simply called the tip or end of the bat. The barrel narrows down, and becomes the handle. The handle is very thin, so that batters can comfortably set the bat in their fingers. Sometimes, especially on metal bats, the handle is wrapped with a rubber or cloth grip. Finally, next to the handle is the knob of the bat, a wider piece that keeps the bat from sliding off of a batter's hands.

In professional baseball, only wooden bats are permitted, and they are not allowed to be corked. In amateur baseball, both wood and metal alloy bats are generally permitted, although many amateur "wooden bat leagues" do exist. Most wooden bats are made from ash. Other woods used include maple, hickory, and bamboo. Hickory has fallen into disfavor because it is much heavier than other woods. Maple is increasing in popularity based on the success Barry Bonds has had using maple bats.

In high school baseball in the United States, the bat is not allowed to be more than 2 5/8 inches (67 mm) in diameter. It must have a drop of no more than minus three. A 42 inch (1067 mm) bat would weigh at least 39 ounces (1.1 kg).

In most 12-year-old-and-under youth leagues (such as Little League Baseball, PONY League Baseball , and Cal Ripken League Baseball ), the bat may not be more than 2 1/4 inches (57 mm) in diameter.

Baseball bats may be also used as weapon. In some countries where baseball is not popular, bats are associated mostly with crime.

External links

• Physics and Acoustics of Baseball and Softball Bats by Dr. Daniel A. Russell. A look into the physics of baseball bats, including some videos some quantitative details.
• Baseball-bats.net's page on baseball bat materials