Written by Mark Bailey
MLB players use heavy wooden bats, some nearing 35 ounces. Bat weights help players adjust, making the bat feel lighter during swings. Essential for improving bat speed, they’re a must-have tool for any baseball team.
POINTS
- Baseball players use bat weights to make the bat feel lighter than it actually is, which makes it easier to swing.
- Bat weights are a valuable tool for hitters because they can increase bat speed and help focus on flaws in the swing or bat path.
- There are two different types of bat weights: donut rings and weighted bats. Donut rings are typically used during games, while weighted bats are usually seen being used in practices.
- The right fit for you is specific to your current situation as a baseball player. Younger players typically use weighted bats more than donut rings.
The benefits of using bat weights
A bat weight is a weighted, ring-like object that is placed on a baseball bat. Once put on the bat, the player will swing the bat like he normally would.
The weight makes the bat so heavy that the player can barely swing. After a few swings, the player can take the bat weight off the bat. He should notice an immediate difference in how light the bat feels.
While the bat’s weight didn’t change, the feeling did since you were holding something much heavier. The principle is similar to going from throwing a baseball to picking up a basketball. If you can swing a bat faster, you will hit the ball harder and further.
Bat weights can also slow your swing down, which will help you focus on your bat path. By slowing things down, it will be much easier to recognize flaws in your swing or bat path.
Using a bat weight for an at-bat can also be a form of getting your body loose and ready to perform. The heavy-weighted bat will stretch out your muscles, which can prevent possible injury.
Different types of bat weights
There are a couple of different bat weights out there that you can get your hands on. The most common one is the donut ring. This is a ring that is shaped like a donut. You will just need to place your bat through the hole until it is tight around the barrel. This adds weight to your bat, which allows you to get loose and makes your bat feel lighter.
Another type of bat weight is an actual weighted bat. Some companies make bats that are specifically for training. They are weighted bats that can be pretty tough to swing. However, the toughness of the drill helps you tremendously in the long run. Practice should be complex and not easy.
Donut weights are primarily used during games. For example, donut rings will be used by the batters in the on-deck circle in a baseball game. Weighted bats will usually be seen being used in practices instead of games. The best choice for a bat weight is going to be a donut ring.
How to choose the right bat weight
The right fit for you is specific to your current situation as a baseball player. Are you struggling with bat speed in the game? A donut weight is what you need. Are you having a hard time swinging through the ball? A weighted bat is what you need.
Younger players typically use the weighted bat more than the donut ring. A weighted bat allows you to improve your strength while also working on the fundamentals of your swing.
Usually, a donut ring is used to make an immediate adjustment, such as in the on-deck circle. A weighted bat is something you take your time with. This makes it the perfect tool for a practice-like atmosphere.
There are some different kinds of donut weights out there. You have the smaller ones that are shaped exactly like a donut. These are lighter in weight and are meant for younger athletes. You can also find bigger ones that almost look like burritos, and these are the bat weights used in the MLB. They are much heavier but provide the most effectiveness.
A younger player would want either a weighted bat or a small donut ring. However, an older and more developed player may want to get an MLB-style bat weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do baseball bat weights cost?
Small donut weights are typically under $10. The bigger ones will be close to $20–$30. Weighted bats can run up to $100.
What weights do bat weights come in?
9 ounces, 12 ounces, and 16 ounces.
What kind of bat weight is best for beginners?
A donut weight will probably be your best bet as a beginner. They are much lighter but provide just enough weight to make them useful. Older and more experienced players should only use the heavier bat weights.
Conclusion
Baseball bats aren’t the lightest things around. Bat weights can be your best friend in regard to this. Before you head up to bat, slide on a bat weight and swing it around a couple of times. You will quickly notice how much lighter your bat feels in your hands. With it feeling lighter, your bat speed will also increase dramatically. While a bat weight won’t fix your swing, it can surely improve it!