Little League baseball is designed to teach youth baseball players the fundamentals and mechanics of the game while having fun. One of the most important factors to learning the proper mechanics is having equipment that fits the size and strength of the player. The baseball bat, for example, must match the skill level, height, weight and strength of the player.
Regulations
Each organization and league enforces specific restrictions on the type of bat, bat materials, length and weight. A common regulation is the length-to-weight ratio, which expresses the difference in the length, in inches, and the weight, in ounces. Most leagues allow a -8 to -10 length-to-weight ratio. The bat rules are constantly changing to keep up with the latest technology, so consult your league rules before choosing a bat.
Length
As a general rule, the length of the baseball bat is related to the age range of the player. For example, a kid from 5 to 7 years old should start with a 24- to 26-inch bat while kids from 8 to 9 years-old can use a bat measuring 26 to 28 inches.. Once your child reaches 10, he can use a bat measuring 28 to 29 inches. If you child is shorter than the other players in his age range, consider choosing a bat slightly smaller than the recommended range.
Weight
Similar to the length of the bat, the weight is determined by the weight of the kid. A kid weighing 70 to 80 lbs. should start with a bat weighing 18 to 19 ounces while a kid weighing between 81 and 100 lbs. can use a 20-ounce bat. At 140 pounds and above, a 22- to 23-oz. bat is appropriate. Adjust the weight of the bat to match the strength level or hitting style of the kid.
Barrel Size
The barrel size of a youth baseball bat can improve hitting performance but it also adds weight. Bats for tee-ball and kids aged 5 to 7 years old are typically slightly larger, measuring 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 inches in diameter. Moving up to Little League, bats for kids ages 7 to 12 have a barrel diameter of 2 1/4 inches.
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