It wasn't a huge surprise when on Thursday, April 6, it became official from DeMarini:
"DeMarini has concluded its youth baseball bat BPF audit for USSSA and the following bats have been officially withdrawn from USSSA baseball play as a result of the audit."
So, what exactly does that mean? Are all 2017 DeMarini youth baseball bats affected? You just bought a CF Zen, so now you're stuck?
There is a lot of misinformation being spread, so we hope to provide accurate information, as well as answer any questions you may have. First of all, some key takeaways:
- The audit does not make all DeMarini youth baseball bats for 2017 illegal; just eleven (11) CF Zen models.
- These results are final, so 2 5/8 (-8) CF Zens and 2 3/4 (-10) CF Zens are officially removed from USSSA certification.
- Replacement bats will be available in the 2018 lineup, which is currently scheduled for a Fall 2017 release.
- DeMarini will issue refunds on previously purchased models that are affected by this ruling.
Which DeMarini bat models are now removed from USSSA certification?
The BPF audit affects these models; eleven (11) total with custom models also affected:
- 2017 CF Zen Balanced (-8) 29" 21 oz.
- 2017 CF Zen Balanced (-8) 30" 22 oz.
- 2017 CF Zen Balanced (-8) 31" 23 oz.
- 2017 CF Zen Balanced (-8) 32" 24 oz.
- Custom 2017 CF Zen Balanced (-8)
- 2017 CF Zen SL 2 3/4" (-10) 28" 18 oz.
- 2017 CF Zen SL 2 3/4" (-10) 29" 19 oz.
- 2017 CF Zen SL 2 3/4" (-10) 30" 20 oz.
- 2017 CF Zen SL 2 3/4" (-10) 31" 21 oz.
- 2017 CF Zen SL 2 3/4" (-10) 32" 22 oz.
- Custom 2017 CF Zen 2 3/4" (-10)
- 2017 CF Zen Zero Dark 2 3/4" (-10) 29" 19 oz.
- 2017 CF Zen Zero Dark 2 3/4" (-10) 30" 20 oz.
Can I return a previously purchased CF Zen?
DeMarini is offering a voucher for the full retail price of the bat that is redeemable for any product in the DeMarini or Wilson line of bats.
- Complete the form on DeMarini's website
- The vouchers can be used on current models or future 2018 models (when they become available).
- Vouchers will be processed once your bat is received by DeMarini. The voucher code will be sent via email.
- The voucher will allow you to order any product from the Wilson family of brands website.
- Any questions, DeMarini Customer Service can be reached at (800) 800-9932. If you need help facilitating a return or have any issues, please give us a call at (866) 321-2287.
What is the best replacement for these bats?
The best replacement for the 2017 CF Zen Senior League 2 5/8" (-8) bat is the 2017 DeMarini Voodoo Balanced (-9) 2 5/8".
The best replacement for the 2017 CF Zen Senior League 2 3/4" (-10) bat is the 2017 CF Zen Senior League 2 5/8" (-10). That said, you can find the most popular Senior League bats on JustBats.com.
If you have any additional questions or requests, give our Bat Experts a call at (866) 321-2287, shoot them an email at experts@justbats.com, or click here to live chat! Remember, we're here for you from click to hit!