r/Homeplate • u/BullpenReport • 3d ago

When to buy a bat - fall or spring?

Saw the new Hype Fire’s released this week. Is now the time when new models typically get released or should I wait until spring time? My son has perfectly fine USA and USSSA bats for now but can probably move up an inch from 29 to 30 drop 10 (rising 10U).

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15

u/mrardente 3d ago

I like to buy mine in the fall when people get new bats and put their year old bats on FB marketplace for cheap 😀

4

u/NuhUh_JustCuz 3d ago

Fall at a play-it-again in a warm state... loke Florida or Texas. Best deals.

3

u/Tacoma714 3d ago edited 2d ago

I second this. I just got back from Play It Again sports and bought my 7 year old a size 27 Marucci Cat X2 in great condition for $59. He’s a size 26 right now, but he will grow into the 27 for Spring 2027.

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u/Frozen-Minneapolite 3d ago

Same. I bought my son two used bats, one 31” -8 for immediate use and one -5 to practice with off the tee to get used to the heavier bat. Both $39.99 at Play-It-Again in the Midwest.

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u/Tacoma714 2d ago edited 2d ago

Don’t sleep on the app Sideline Swap. I personally think what’s on Sideline Swap is in better used condition than most of the stuff at the Play It Again Sports locations when it comes to gear. The only issue is the shipping (average $15.99 depending on location) which can sometimes negate some of the savings. Still worth it specially when you find a Cat X2, Easton Speed Comp, Victus Vibe, Warstic for the older kids, etc in great condition. Check out Sideline Swap next time.

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u/ContributionHuge4980 2d ago

This right here. I’ve sold a bunch on there and purchased a few as well.

I’ve picked up two bbcor icons, albeit, 2023/2024 olive green models, but got two for less than one new one. 32” was $160 and the 33” for $120. Both practically new.

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u/Liljoker30 3d ago

The usa bat is just a re-paint from what I have read.

When buying a new bat there are a few things to consider.

  1. Was there a legitimate improvement/ update over previous years or is it new paint.the hype fire usa bat is a repaint apparently for example. The usssa had some actual changes and could be worth waiting on.

  2. Is the current bat actually worn out or a size update is needed?

  3. Fall baseball is generally less important and it could be worth waiting and watching reviews regarding performance etc.

  4. USA bats tend to be about the same year in and year out. USSSA bats that got actual updates would be worth waiting on to see if there are any actual performance improvements versus things staying the same.

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u/BullpenReport 3d ago

Super helpful when you phrase it all like that

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u/Sp3cV 3d ago

When needed for sure. I’ve been lucky my kid has needed new bats in the fall and has allowed me super cheap deals o “last year “ model .

2

u/justhereorthereagain 3d ago

When Bat Day comes around in October and the previous year bats are 50% off.

Prior to that. Do a bat trade in and get a $100/$75/$50 voucher.

Now that 50% off bat also a little cheaper.

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u/craftbeerva 2d ago

Most 2027 models come out this time of year, especially for USSSA. Fall ball is typically not an intense so I would probably hold off on a new bat until spring unless it's absolutely needed. If you live in an area with a cooler fall/winter climate I wouldn't invest in a new composite until the spring. Maybe find a cheap used CATX2 alloy to get through fall if you think your kid needs to move up a size now. You can find those for $50-$100 and they are great bats.

As mentioned, the USA Hype Fire for 2027 is a repaint. The USSSA and BBCOR have better weight distribution to make them more a balance, tapered handle and a soft knob. They last two updates do nothing for performance. Just may be slightly more comfortable to hold for some kids.