ASA Wooden Bats

[NDblue]

Originally Posted by NCASAUmp

And the 2010 rule book does not state that there are any exceptions to wood bats.

I was going on memory. Apparently they've removed the exception wording in that rule. I still don't think I'm going to stop anybody from using a wood bat if it says "OFFICIAL SOFTBALL" on it.

[Tru_in_Blu]

Originally Posted by NDblue

I was going on memory. Apparently they've removed the exception wording in that rule. I still don't think I'm going to stop anybody from using a wood bat if it says "OFFICIAL SOFTBALL" on it.

Perhaps you were thinking of the NFHS exception?

1-5-1-d
...Bats made entirely of wood are permitted and need not bear an ASA mark.

[NCASAUmp]

My thoughts on the matter:

I don't think wood bats are any more dangerous than an approved Freak 98. In fact, I think that their performance is typically just above that of an Easton Hammer.

However, the letter of the rule is clear: all bats, regardless of whether they're composite, metal or wood, must meet the qualifications of ASA Rule 3-1. If I think it's pre-2000, it doesn't need the stamp. Otherwise, it must have the stamp.

And since ASA is certifying wooden bats (such as the Viper), I believe that further reinforces the argument that ASA does not view wood bats any differently than composite or metal bats.

[NDblue]

Originally Posted by Tru_in_Blu

Perhaps you were thinking of the NFHS exception?

1-5-1-d
...Bats made entirely of wood are permitted and need not bear an ASA mark.

I've never done NFHS so I'm not thinking of their rule. I did find where I read it pertaining to ASA rules. http://downloads.asasoftball.com/abo...dated_FAQs.pdf

[NCASAUmp]

Originally Posted by NDblue

I've never done NFHS so I'm not thinking of their rule. I did find where I read it pertaining to ASA rules. http://downloads.asasoftball.com/abo...dated_FAQs.pdf

I came across that same document while looking up something else about bat testing, and that's exactly why I bring this up.

I understand if ASA does not want us to become too concerned with wooden bats, but the rule, as written, does not give us that leeway to make that decision.

I'll also note that this document was last updated in 2003.

[NDblue]

Originally Posted by NCASAUmp

I'll also note that this document was last updated in 2003.

I saw that also.

[Big Slick]

While working a slow pitch tournament a few weeks ago (being played under E class rules for HR purposes), two teams brought the same model wooden bat, model name is Chicago 16" and does have "official softball." Just one slight problem . . . the barrel is 2 5/8.

After a quick web search, it is made by Louisville Slugger, seems they make a 35" and 36" model.

[NCASAUmp]

Originally Posted by Big Slick

While working a slow pitch tournament a few weeks ago (being played under E class rules for HR purposes), two teams brought the same model wooden bat, model name is Chicago 16" and does have "official softball." Just one slight problem . . . the barrel is 2 5/8.

After a quick web search, it is made by Louisville Slugger, seems they make a 35" and 36" model.

Well, despite the fact that ASA now prohibits the use of bats with dents, that doesn't mean we should stop ringing the bats during the pre-game inspections.

You'd be amazed at what you can still find when you ring the bats these days. Might discover the next Picasso.