*Note: products listed on Bases Loaded Softball are selected by our softball players, coaches, and team of enthusiast writers and editors. Buying softball products through our links may earn us a commission with no additional cost to you.
You might be wondering, “What is a slapper in softball? Is there anything that sets them apart from other batters?” Well, not only will we provide you with the answer to these questions but also the best fastpitch bats for slappers.
As players get more specialized and have a distinct role on their team, this is an issue that arises frequently. This page will explain what they are, what function they play on a team, and which fastpitch bats are excellent for slappers (which are different from other hitter needs).
🏆 #1 Overall Best Selling Fastpitch Bat for Slappers 🏆
Louisville Slugger Meta
Louisville Slugger Meta Fastpitch Bat (-10)
What is a Slapper in Softball
What exactly is a slapper? A slapper is usually a left-handed batter or a right-handed batter who has converted. They prefer to bunt and hit short balls instead of aiming to hit the ball hard, and they are a valuable tool in the offensive arsenal of the coach. Some of the top slappers use a bat that is designed for shorter infield hits but can also be used for a surprise power stroke.
To expand on this, the slapper typically sits at the top of the lineup card and functions as a table-setter by attempting to get on base as much as possible in preparation for the power hitters.You can find additional information related to a slapper in softball here:
What is a Slapper Softball Bat
This particular bat is designed specifically for softball slappers. As we explained the role of a softball slapper above, the bat meets their needs in order for them to get their job done accordingly. Additionally, you find more information on how to become a slapper in softball here:
Now, let’s take a look at the best fastpitch bats for slappers below!
Best Fastpitch Bat for Slappers
If you’re a batter, choosing which bat to buy is critical. Finding the best fastpitch softball bat, on the other hand, is a difficult undertaking. There are numerous brands, types, and kinds of bats available. How can you tell which one is right for you?
There are numerous considerations to make. It’s critical to get a bat that will assist you in getting the most out of your game. We’ve put together a guide to assist you in making the best decision possible.
Furthermore, new models are released every year, offering new and revolutionary design changes and innovations to assist you step up your game. But does any of it make sense, or is it all simply marketing nonsense?
We’ve compiled a list of the greatest and most popular fastpitch bats for slappers based on all of the testing, reviews, and player feedback
DeMarini CF
2023 DeMarini CF® (-9) Fastpitch Bat
DeMarini CF Fastpitch Bat 2021 (-10), Women's
DeMarini CF® (-11) Fastpitch Softball Bat - 29'/18 oz
- 2023 DeMarini CF (-11) Fastpitch Softball Bat - 29"/18 oz
- Paraflex Plus Composite Barrel: Engineered for consistent responsiveness and a huge sweet spot
- Type V CF Connection: This all-new connection improves barrel performance and creates a responsive feel that delivers energy transfer into the barrel instead of your hands
DeMarini CF (-11) Fastpitch Softball Bat - 2023 Model Size 31in./20oz
There aren’t many bats built expressly for slappers, as you’re surely well aware.
Fortunately, Demarini (one of the most well-known brands in the industry) makes a fantastic one called the Demarini CF. This one is the optimum pick for slappers, based on their successful line of CF model bats, such as the one listed in our best fastpitch softball bats page.
The primary requirement for a slapper is a long barrel that is heavier in the hands than in the barrel for maximum barrel control and manipulation. With a 14″ barrel and maximum plate coverage, the DeMarini CF 2022 has it all. The two separate walls of the stacked barrel structure create a tremendously sensitive hitting surface that extends the sweet spot further along the barrel than ever before.
Slappers frequently claim that they get more “mis-hits” than their power-striking rivals. By creating a 3-Fusion handle, the CF has attempted to lessen the unpleasant, sting-like sensation associated with erroneous hits.
This handle should aid lessen ball sting while also providing excellent energy transfer and assisting in giving the ball a little extra spin to keep catchers and fielders guessing.
The hitter may step in with power instead of a light drop and modify the defender’s strategy on the fly thanks to the low pro end cap and -10 length to weight ratio. Finally, the DeMarini CF has inverted the grip for enhanced control and longer wear.
back to menu ↑Easton Ghost
Easton | GHOST Fastpitch Softball Bat | -10 | 33"
- DOUBLE BARREL 3 – Third-generation Double Barrel construction combines Easton’s lowest compression outer barrel yet with a lightweight inner barrel to achieve maximum allowed performance with a more balanced swing weight
Easton Ghost Double Barrel Fastpitch Bat 2022 (-11), Women's
Easton Ghost Double Barrel (-10) Fastpitch Softball Bat - 2022 Model Size 34in./24oz
If the DeMarini CFX didn’t pique your interest, the newer Easton Ghost Double barrel is the only high-quality bat I can think of.
To begin, I’d like to point out that this bat can only be used in ASA, ISF, and NCAA competitions. Unlike the previous two versions, it cannot be used in USSSA or NSA leagues.
The cat’s out of the bag now…What makes the Easton Ghost deserving of your attention?
For starters, the bat is designed to offer a smooth, even swing. This is crucial for slappers because it ensures consistency and eliminates guesswork. After all, a slapper’s goal is to get on base. It’s reassuring to know that your bat will deliver a consistent and even swing.
The newly designed twin-barrel is one of the more noteworthy elements of the Easton Ghost. There aren’t any other bats that I’m aware of that have this feature. So, how does it function? Essentially:
- The inner barrel functions virtually as a motor. This is where all of the strength and endurance originates.
- The Ghost’s outside barrel is softer than the inside barrel, allowing it to be hot right out of the wrapper.
Despite the fact that I believe the previous two models we looked at would help slappers more, it’s difficult not to put an Easton bat in this list. It’s difficult to overlook their stellar track record.
back to menu ↑Louisville Slugger Meta
2022 Meta (-10) Fastpitch Bat
Louisville Slugger Meta Fastpitch Bat 2022 (-10), Women's
Louisville Slugger Meta (-10) Fastpitch Softball Bat - 2022 Model Size 30in./20oz
Louisville Slugger 2022 Meta (-10) Fastpitch Softball Bat - 32"/22 oz
- BARREL: MASH Composite with an optimized dual-wall design to immediately and continually maximize performance.
- CONSTRUCTION: Two-piece design featuring our VTX Connection System, which allows for independent movement between the barrel and handle for unparalleled feel and pop.
The new Louisville Slugger Meta fastpitch bat has a brilliant concept. The Meta is the result of combining two highly popular Louisville Slugger bats, the Xeno and the LXT, into one bat.
That idea appeals to us because the Louisville Slugger Meta is one of the most comfortable bats available. It’s made of composite and comes in two pieces, and it has some of the same qualities as the 2020 edition of the bat. The HVR-1 Technology and the SPRINGLOAD Connection System are two of them. We were captivated by the Meta’s ability to pop thanks to those innovations. We would have liked to see more new features, though. However, the bat performs admirably, and the feel on swings is amazing.
The previous model was only available in a -10 drop, but the new one is available in -8, -9, and -10 drops, which is fantastic news. The colorway of the 202w Louisville Slugger Meta was also something we enjoyed about it; the way this bat appears is wonderful, and it is one of our favorite looking bats.
back to menu ↑Louisville Slugger LXT
2024 Louisville Slugger LXT® (-9) Fastpitch Bat
Louisville Slugger LXT Fastpitch Bat 2022 (-10), Women's
Louisville Slugger LXT (-10) Fastpitch Softball Bat - 2022 Model Size 30in./20oz
2022 Louisville Slugger LXT (-10) Fastpitch Bat
- Louisville Slugger 2022 LXT (-10) Fastpitch Bat - 34"/24 oz
- PBF Technology Speed Composite Barrel: Our patented single disc Speed Composite Design features PBF Technology, which delivers a larger sweet spot, higher performance and an incredible sound on contact. We fine-tuned the lower portion of the barrel, which means you get more pop, even when you don’t perfectly barrel the ball.
The Louisville Slugger LXT comes in a variety of drop options, but I’m guessing that if you’re reading this, you’re most interested in the -11 drop (lightest for LXT).
So, why would you choose the LXT over the CFX Slapper?
For starters, this one is a little lighter than the CFX, with a -11 drop compared to the CFX’s -10 drop. However, as previously stated, the LXT is also available in -10 and -9 versions.
The LXT is also a three-piece bat rather than a two-piece bat. You might be perplexed as to how a bat might be a three-piece. Despite the fact that I am not a technical person, this page on Louisville’s website explains it much better.
The LXT was constructed last year using TRU3 technology, which is discussed in the link. This year, the system was upgraded to a brand new VCX2. The Vibration Control Connection system is located in the middle of the bat and is designed to reduce vibration and ball sting in the handle while also increasing the barrel’s durability so it may be used for numerous seasons. The grip and barrel, it appears, are totally self-contained.
Another fantastic feature is Louisville’s revolutionary new lightweight end cap, dubbed COPA. This is an excellent feature for any hitter since, according to the specs, it works in tandem with the sweet spot to deliver amazing results.
Overall, the LXT appears to be a wonderful bat and could be a nice alternative to the Demarini Slapper if you don’t like it.
back to menu ↑Rawlings Mantra
Rawlings Mantra Fastpitch Bat 2021 (-10), Women's, shell
Rawlings Mantra (-10) Fastpitch Softball Bat - 2023 Model Size 30in./20oz
Rawlings | 2023 | Mantra Fastpitch Softball Bat Series | -10 | 33" x 23 oz.
- NEW COLLAR | Fully reconstructed F2 Collar assembly creates seamless energy transfer and barrel control
- PERFECT BALANCE | 3-step inner barrel balances pop and weight to create the perfect impact profile
Rawlings’ first bat, the Mantra, was released in 2021 and is the successor to the Quatro Pro. It has a three-step inner barrel that produces a fantastic sound when you make perfect contact with the hit. It’ll be one of the game’s most recognizable sounds.
Another advantage of this bat is the pop, which is attributed to the thin barrel shape. The F2 collar, a little element that lowers vibration and allows for a more powerful and faster swing, is the most intriguing feature of the Mantra.
The drop 9 has been our favorite and we believe it is the finest option for power hitters.
The Blast Motion sensor is another wonderful feature of the Mantra. The Rawlings Mantra is the first fastpitch bat to be approved for in-game use with the swing analysis sensor. This feature isn’t “necessary,” but it’s good to have. It is, however, sold separately.
Overall, the new Rawlings Mantra is a wonderful softball bat that will make a statement in 2022; it performs well, is robust, and comes with a handful of cool features that you will love. The new Mantra is pricey, no doubt about it, but it is well worth the money.
Conclusion
With everything shared here, the decision to purchase the bat comes down to you. Here you’ve become of the best fastpitch bat for slappers, check them out and figure out which suits you the best.
