When To Start Practicing With Wood Bats

A wood baseball bat is iconic in the history of our beloved game. Ever since the 1800s, hitters have stepped into the box with wood bats. Still to this day, professional hitters exclusively swing wood, while younger players hit with composite bats and alloy bats. However, as a young player evolves, it’s important to learn when and how to swing a wood baseball bat. This transition from metal bats to wood bats is a rite of passage. In this article, the Bat Experts at JustBats outline everything you need to know about when to start swinging a wood bat. Let’s check it out.

Making the Switch to Wood Bats

Why switch to wood bats? Wood bat offers hitters (and parents) a few benefits that can bolster your swing and keep money in your wallet. For starters, you can’t beat the feel of a wood bat. The feedback is true to the contact. What we mean by that is if you miss the sweet spot, you will feel it in your hands. If you hit the sweet spot, it’s as smooth a butter. You’ll learn very quickly how to find the barrel with your swing. And if you are able to hone the skill of connecting the sweet spot of your bat with the ball, you’ll have a long career in the game of baseball.

Finally, using a wood bat for hitting not only encourages improved plate discipline and swing mechanics but also offers a distinct advantage. When faced with an inside pitch, swinging a composite bat may be relatively comfortable, with minimal discomfort if jammed. However, the experience is markedly different when using a wood bat. Getting jammed with a wood bat, provided it doesn't break, serves as a memorable lesson, prompting players to instinctively avoid such situations in the future.

Timing Your Transition

• Skill Level: Once a hitter is comfortable with their swing and controlling their bat through the zone, it might be worthwhile to introduce a wood bat to their practice regime.

• Physical Strength: Being able to swing a heavier bat without sacrificing speed or form can be an indicator of readiness.

• Commitment: A player that is committed to playing baseball for the long term, should at least consider trying a wood bat during practice.

Practice Makes Perfect

Transition gradually. Start by incorporating wood bats during practice sessions. It’s going to feel a little strange hitting with a wood bat at first. That’s totally normal. Take your time, hit off the tee, swing against front and side toss. Over time, muscle memory will adjust, and your confidence will grow.

Most Common Types of Wood Bats

• Ash Wood Bats – Renowned for its flexibility, ash bats offer a reduced risk of breakage. They provide a satisfying feel during swings but may have a tendency to flake more compared to other wood types. Generally a lighter, softer wood.
• Birch Wood Bats – Valued for its flexibility and durability, birch bats become harder with extended use. Birch bats are a nice middle ground for practice sessions, as they possess the qualities essential for repeated use.
  
• Maple Wood Bats – Known for being the hardest wood, maple bats boast durability but come with a degree of brittleness, making them more susceptible to breaking. Maple bats are ideal for seasoned hitters with a consistent swing, especially those who use them in games and consistently connect with the barrel.

Finding The Right Wood Bat

So you are thinking about switching to a wood baseball bat? JustBats has everything from youth wood bats to professional grade wood bats. We offer ash, birch, maple, bamboo, and even composite wood bats. You can add laser engraving to any wood bat purchase to allow it to stand out on the bat rack. Shopping for a wood bat has never been easier. Need help picking a new wood bat? Try our Bat Coach or live chat with a Bat Expert today. We’re JustBats and we’re with you from Click to Hit!