I am getting a lot of questions about how to select the proper bat. I will pass on just a couple pieces of advice. One, if you child is 13 and just entering Pony Baseball, do not get him a -3 High School sized bat. I know bats are expensive, but trying to get one that will last your child 4-5 years is just not going to work. A -3 bat is just too long and too heavy for 99% of all Pony Players. Even if they can swing it, they cannot swing it correctly. Bat speed is always a key and the heavier bat they swing, the slower the bat speed. The slower the bat speed, the sooner they have to start their swing. The sooner they start their swing, the less time they have to react to curve balls and breaking balls which you see much more of at this age group. Also the centrifugal force created by a long heavy bat really lengthens their swing and does much harm going forward.
Goetz Brothers on Broadway in Redwood City is really the place to begin your bat shopping. They are very knowledgeable and will save you money in the long run by getting your child the right bat that will last the next two years. Take your child in and talk to one of their professionals. You will not be disappointed.
Also keep in mind that while this year 2 3/4 inch barrels are approved for use in Pony Baseball this year, next year they will not be. Make sure you get a bat with no more than a 2 5/8 inch barrel if you want it to last two years in Pony play.
