STATUS OF COMPOSITE BATS
In recent years there has been much discussion and research on the safety of composite baseball and softball bats. On December 30, 2010, the Little League International (LLI) Board of Directors Executive Committee decided, after reviewing the scientific research, to ban many composite barrel bats from use in Little League Baseball play (many composite barrel bats had already been banned in other leagues, such as College Baseball, Cal Ripken, etc.). Most composite bats manufactured and sold before 2011 are now banned. Attached is the official ruling by LLI, as well as a link to their list of permitted composite baseball bats.
In recent years there has been much discussion and research on the safety of composite baseball and softball bats. On December 30, 2010, the Little League International (LLI) Board of Directors Executive Committee decided, after reviewing the scientific research, to ban many composite barrel bats from use in Little League Baseball play (many composite barrel bats had already been banned in other leagues, such as College Baseball, Cal Ripken, etc.). Most composite bats manufactured and sold before 2011 are now banned. Attached is the official ruling by LLI, as well as a link to their list of permitted composite baseball bats.
In addition, the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) has made similar rulings on regulations for composite softball bats. The official ASA statement and a link to their website are also included below.
Effective immediately, Long Hill Little League will not permit the use of composite barrel bats that do not meet LLI and ASA regulations. In addition, our Board of Directors is working with the spring and summer all-star leagues in which our travel teams participate to confirm their positions regarding the use of composite bats. We will provide notification once those league directors have made their determinations.
This decision by LLI and ASA was made strictly in the interest of player safety. The truth is that composite bats have become so advanced that they present a danger to players on the field. The Long Hill Board will instruct its coaches and umpires to enforce these bat restrictions in all games and practices. More specific rules regarding the use of composite bats will be posted to the League website prior to the start of the spring recreational season.
We understand that this rule change will require many families to purchase new bats. This is an unfortunate result of new rules to protect our children from injuries. New compliant composite bats are now being sold, however, they must indicate that they meet the updated LLI and ASA standards. We hope that everyone will understand that the decision of Long Hill Little League to comply with LLI and ASA regulations makes good sense as we always put the safety of our participants first. Thanks for working with us to run a fun and safe baseball/softball program.
LHLL President
Senior(13-15) BASEBALL DIVISION
The bat may not exceed 34" in length, and the bat barrel may not exceed 2 5/8" in diameter. All aluminum/alloy barrel bats and all composite handle (only) aluminum/alloy barrels are allowed. Only composite barrel bats certified and marked BBCOR .50 will be allowed. Wood barrel bats conforming to the specifications of Official Baseball Rule 1.10 are allowed.
Little League (Majors) and below:
It shall not be more than thirty-three (33) inches in length nor more than two and one-quarter (2¼) inches in diameter. Non-wood bats shall be labeled with a BPF (bat performance factor) of 1.15 or less;
EXCEPTION: For the Little League (Majors) and below, for regular season play and Tournament, composite bats are prohibited unless approved by Little League International. View the list of approved and licensed composite bats.
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ASA Testing & Certification Program
The Amateur Softball Association (ASA) has taken great strides to protect the integrity of the sport. Each year, the ASA's equipment testing and specifications committee examines the current rules and specifications governing various items of equipment. This committee makes recommendations to the ASA's council comprised of ASA commissioners, select youth and player representatives, umpire-in-chiefs, elite athletes and other affiliated members. The council is the ultimate decision maker of ASA rules and regulations regarding equipment. For a complete updated listing of ASA certified equipment, click on the appropriate category you are searching for: http://www.asasoftball.com/about/certified_equipment.asp.
The Amateur Softball Association (ASA) has taken great strides to protect the integrity of the sport. Each year, the ASA's equipment testing and specifications committee examines the current rules and specifications governing various items of equipment. This committee makes recommendations to the ASA's council comprised of ASA commissioners, select youth and player representatives, umpire-in-chiefs, elite athletes and other affiliated members. The council is the ultimate decision maker of ASA rules and regulations regarding equipment. For a complete updated listing of ASA certified equipment, click on the appropriate category you are searching for: http://www.asasoftball.com/about/certified_equipment.asp.
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