ASA Rule Changes

Originally Posted by JEL

I did that at Nats this year. Guess what? The bat WAS made that way!

There is a Cat Osterman (I believe) bat that has a flex handle and ASA approval! The first one I tossed because of the "wiggle." Told the coach it was leaving, and while the UIC was on his way to tag it, the coach removed the factory grip stating "it's always been like that." Sure enough, the handle was made to flex. I suppose to help stop any sting. Saw one other later on.

This got me curious. I found the following description on one website that sells this bat:

Once again, DeMarini leads the industry, this time with the first bat to combine a Fiber Reinforced Carbon fiber handle with a DX-1 alloy aluminum barrel. This bat was specifically designed for better control and feel. DeMarini's battle-proven Single Wall Technology is combined with a new carbon fiber handle and taper that makes this bottle bat design on of the best on the market today. With fiber in the handle and the action in the barrel, the Cat Osterman DXCAT swings like a natural extension of the human body. The new Positac 2 grip gives the player the most comfort at the plate. For the player, Half & Half means more power at the plate. The Demarini DXCAT Cat is ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, and ISF approved. This bat offers an long barrel length with a -13 length to weight ratio. Behold the worlds first bionic bat.

Another website describes it:

This is the DeMarini DXCTF Cat Osterman signature model fastpitch softball model. This bat offers the DeMarini singlewall, bottle bat design with a precision balance for competitive play. The 7046 aluminum alloy makes up the strong and durable outer barrel. The improved n2m end cap helps damper the vibration to make for a better feel and easier swing. The new Variegated Comfort grip gives you the most comfortable feel allowing you to have to most control possible over the bat. With the new rotation index labeling you will be able to rotate your swings to evenly break-in the bat. The new superior graphics provide for optimal look while at the plate. The Cat is stamped “Official Softball,” along with the ASA, USSSA, ISF 1.20, and NSA official markings. This bat also includes a full twelve month manufacturers warranty. The DXCTF Cat Osterman is the standard in bottle bat design. DeMarini: Insane Dedication To Performance.