Does Bat Weight or Swing Speed More Significantly Affect Ball Exit Speed?

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    Baseball Physics
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the impact of bat weight and swing speed on ball exit speed in baseball. A user compares a 33" 30oz bat with an average swing speed of 84mph to a 34" 31oz bat with an average swing speed of 81mph. Key factors include the moment of inertia (MOI) of the bats, which affects swing speed and momentum transfer to the ball. The consensus is that while the heavier bat may provide more momentum, the loss in swing speed must be carefully evaluated to determine the optimal choice for maximizing exit speed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of swing mechanics in baseball
  • Knowledge of bat specifications, including weight and length
  • Familiarity with moment of inertia (MOI) concepts
  • Experience with swing speed measurement tools
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of moment of inertia on swing speed in baseball bats
  • Explore how to calculate momentum transfer during a baseball swing
  • Investigate different bat technologies and their impact on performance
  • Learn about swing speed measurement devices and their accuracy
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for baseball players, coaches, and sports scientists interested in optimizing bat performance and swing mechanics for improved hitting outcomes.

coltman
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Okay so I'm not sure if this post should go here but I would like some help figuring out a baseball related question. I have a 33" bat that is 30oz that I average 84mph swing speed at contact with the baseball. I tried swinging a 34" bat that is 31oz that I average 81mph swing speed at contact. Is there any way to determine which bat I should use to maximize ball exit speed off the bat?

Is the 1oz bat difference make up for the loss of 3mph swing speed at contact?
 
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You can look at which bat gives you more momentum to transfer to the ball.
 
Bystander said:
You can look at which bat gives you more momentum to transfer to the ball.

I've read that moment of inertia is an important factor in the swing speed I'm able to generate with a certain bat. Easton even has an MOI rating for their new line of bats. How would I figure out what gives me more momentum?
 
coltman said:
I've read that moment of inertia is an important factor in the swing speed
This may not be a question, so I'll comment: you do see which of the two bats is which, and which you're swinging faster?
 
Bystander said:
This may not be a question, so I'll comment: you do see which of the two bats is which, and which you're swinging faster?

Not sure I understand your question. I took 100 swings with each with a sensor attached to the bottom of the bats and got an average swing speed for both bats, if that's what you are asking.
 

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