Marucci Cat X Baseball Bat Series Review | A Budge Coming for 2023?

Last Updated on September 23, 2022

Marucci, the top baseball bat manufacturer, always brings something new with new bats. Marucci CAT series is a legendary baseball bat series that has been dominating the plate for a long time. This time, Marucci comes with a budget with its new CAT series. Presenting you the brand new Marucci CAT X 2023. 

We have already talked about Marucci’s CAT series bats before. But this Marucci Cat X is totally new and scheduled for 2023. Expectedly, there is a hype about this model in the industry. 

By the way, as a youth baseball coach and former professional baseball player, I always look for work with new baseball equipment. We have tested this bat firsthand for review purposes. 

Basically, it currently has three versions. We have found a composite, Marucci CAT X Connect, and an all-aluminum version from Marucci’s official site. 

As the bat grabbed our attention, we decided to review all three variants, and we have already done the test. 

So, this is the time to share our team experience with you. No more ado. Let’s jump to the point. 

Marucci CAT X Bat Series Overview

Having an overall view and features of all three variants will help you understand the Marucci bats’ perspectives. 

So, let’s first have the features that Marucci implemented for all their variants. 

Marucci CAT X Composite Bat Features

Marucci CAT X Alloy Features

Marucci Cat X Connect/Hybrid Features

Now you have got a basic idea about the Marucci CAT X series. So, let’s get to the point where I will share our firsthand experience with bats for the last month. 

2023 Marucci Cat X Review: The Composite One

Marucci CAT X composite is designed for both BBCOR and USSSA bats. The only differences between them are the barrel size and bat length. Otherwise, all materials are the same. 

By the way, we got only the BBCOR variant of CAT X Marucci composite. So, let’s start with the individual departments. 

Design and Look

The most significant aspect of the Marucci CAT X 2023 composite bat is its design and look. The design and appearance segment creates the most hype about the bat. 

So, this demands special attention. To be honest, if you ask me to say something about the look, I would say it is the best look of the Marucci CAT series till now. 

Though we were keeping the update for the CAT X from the announcement, we were expecting something new. I think, ultimately, Marucci did a very good job in its design sector. 

The silver and red combination brought such an eye-catching look. The Marucci logo is as before. But the “CAT” logo got a totally redesigned look. The CAT logo looks aggressive and is placed aerodynamically on the bottom of the barrel on one side. 

On the other side, the “CATX” logo is put near the taper, and the Marucci brand name is put on the barrel. 

Along with the bat color, the grip color is matched, which gives an unmatched aesthetic feel. I have a personal interest in the taper of metal bats. The taper always attracts me with its fatty connection state. (It’s a long story, actually, and needs an elaborate explanation of why I love taper. Probably in the near future).

By the way, I would give 8.5 out of 10 for the design and look of the bat. I hope most people like the design as well. But, as the design is a personal taste fact, it depends and varies from person to person. 

Construction

Marucci brought three types of construction in their CAT X series. The CAT X composite is made of composite material. You already know that the composite material is lighter than aluminum and durable enough as well. 

Also, the bat is a two-piece constructed bat. Composite material is used for both the barrel and handle. By the way, as per Marucci’s claim, the composite barrel is designed in a multi-direction way. 

As per their claim, the bat is ultra-responsive with multi-direction layers. 

However, we have found the bat responded well enough while swinging. 

On the other hand, the stiffer S-40 composite is used in the handle, which is stiff enough. As a result, the handle plays a good role in vibration control during contact. Also, the power transferring is fast and accurate enough from hand to handle and handle to the ball. 

Additional read: 2 Piece Bat Vs 1 Piece

OLS Connection System

Outer-Locking System (OLS) is a type of connection system for two-piece baseball bats. It connects the composite barrel of CAT X to the S-40 composite handle from the outside in. As a result, the highest level of connection stiffness is ensured for the bat. 

As a direct consequence, the Marucci CAT X composite ensures the stiffest connection. Theoretically, you should get vibrationless contact with the bat. However, the connection ensures one of the strongest and smoothest swings. 

The Ring-Free Barrel

Basically, metal bats are prone to dead spots. But, the Marucci CAT X composite is constructed with a ring-free barrel which ensures no “dead spot” in the barrel. As a result, you will feel the flawless impact of the barrel flex. 

On the other hand, the larger sweet spot helps to easy contact with the bat, which reduces the chances of miss-contact. 

Swing Weight

The barrel of the CAT X composite is designed with a mid-balanced moment of inertia. 

Consequently, the bat seems to be evenly responsive and balanced fast. As the medium Moment of Inertia is applied, the bat could be used by all baseball players. Even the swing bigger barrel becomes easy for all players. 

The moment of inertia is exclusively related to motion. So, the mid-moment of inertia gives additional balance to swinging and power. As a result, the bat got an extremely fine-tuned barrel. What we say is a perfect balance; the Marucci CAT X composite is a rich example of it. 

Custom Molded Taper on Handle

The ergonomically sound and readily detachable handle knob was fashioned specifically for the product. In addition, the shape of the bats differs depending on the drop weight, making them suitable for BBCOR, USSSA, and Junior league play.

As a direct consequence of this, the handle will now have a better fit and provide more control. In addition to that, it offers enhanced control while swinging.

Aside from the new CAT X 20233 BBCOR, you may also check the guide on “20 Best BBCOR Bats That Are Ready To Dominate The Plate In 2022.”

Grip

Marucci CAT X Composite uses Micro-perforated soft grip. The grip is so comfortable we found it. Also, it gives total stiffness in holding the handle. As a result, we got great control over the bat. 

Certifications

Now, let’s talk about the CAT X Composite certification. The Marucci CAT X composite has both BBCOR and USSSA certifications. 

The BBCOR-certified one has a barrel diameter of 2 ⅝” and a drop weight of -3. The bat is available in bat lengths of 31” to 34”. Whereas the bat weight is 28 oz to 31oz. 

On the other hand, the USSSA-certified one has a barrel diameter of 2 ¾” and found with a drop weight of -5, -8, and -10. 

I have already mentioned before that we have got and tested the Composite BBCOR one. Because the making of both BBCOR and USSSA are the same. 

The same materials, grip, handle and barrel. The differences happen in the BPF. The BBCOR must have a BPF under .50, whereas the USSSA must have a BPF under 1.15. 

By the way, as we are reviewing the bat, talking about BBCOR and USSSA could make the post much bigger. But, we have an extensively detailed guide on BBCOR vs USSSA. So, may check out our guide on BBCOR Vs USSSA Bats| Which One Is Ideal For You [Coach’s Opinion].

Performance

So, you may look for the main aspect of the bat, the performance. We have been testing the bat for almost one month. By this time, the bat did great. 

Due to the larger sweet spot, the contact ability of the bat is mesmerizing. As a balanced bat, the swing speed and the power hitting both got a great combination. Especially, the swing speed is responsive and fast enough. 

By the way, as a BBCOR bat, you have to push your muscle power to get the maximum power (as the BBCOR rules lower the bat’s excessive hitting power). But, under the range, the bat will give you the maximum power, no doubt. 

On the other hand, Marucci’s outer locking system did a great job too. We didn’t feel any noticeable vibration in hitting. Also, almost no sting in miss-hits. Probably the bat is currently one of the best ones with a strong and smooth swing. 

But, as a composite bat, the sound of the bat doesn’t satisfy me. But it is as it should be. Whatever, the composite bat’s sound never satisfies me, as it produces a comparatively thicker sound. 

In summing up, in the performance section, we would give the bat almost 9 out of 10 in its category. 

Additional read: Baseball Bat Size Chart | Choose The Perfect Size

Pricing

Now, let’s talk about the pricing. The CAT series of Marucci makes professional and premium-grade bats. As a result, the price category is higher for the CAT series. The CAT X will cost you around $400 to $500 for different models. 

If you ask me about the pricing, I would say the pricing is ok based on the bat category. 

What I Liked Most About The Bat

• Design and look.
• Contact ability.
• Vibration controlling.
• Stiffness.
• One0year warranty policy.
• Overall performance.

The Thing That Could Be Better

• The sound of hitting.
• The $500 price tag seems higher even for many professionals. 

Marucci CAT X Alloy 2023 Review

We have brought different bats for different segments. We have got a Marucci CAT X alloy which is USSSA certified. This is because we tried to give insight into different types for different bats as we have got the BBCOR one of the composite ones. 

However, as we mentioned before, the BBCOR and USSSA have no difference except the rules and regulations. As the USSSA bats allow more BPF, we got a different hitting experience from the bat. 

Let’s check what is waiting with the Marucci CAT X  bat alloy. 

See Also: Marucci CAT7 Vs Marucci Hex Alloy | Which One Do You Prefer In 2022?

Design and Look

We have not much talk about the design and look. The design and look of the CAT X alloy are pretty much the same as the composite one. The only difference is, that the color “white” is used with red, instead of silver, unlike the CAT X composite. 

Construction

The Marucci CAT X alloy is a one-piece constructed bat fully made of aluminum alloy. So, the build is clean and consistent. There is no connection, and the bat gets stiffer. As a result, the user of the bat will get a solid feel. 

The famous AZR alloy produced by Marucci was used in the bat. The alloy has a very good response time and is very long-lasting. Therefore, we may anticipate that it will provide an outstanding performance (I will describe the performance later).

In contrast to the composite one, the alloy CAT X used a unique liquid-gel dampening knob that is in the process of being patented. This is an innovative technique for controlling vibrations that have never been used before.

It’s incredible that the knob on the CAT X alloy employed liquid gel to dampen the vibrations, that’s what we discovered. Because of this, making contact with the ball with the bat results in a feeling that is both smooth and devoid of vibrations.

Ultimately, the build quality of the bat is pretty solid and durable. 

Additional read for to learn the differences between Alloy vs Composite bat basics.

Swing Weight

The CAT X alloy implemented a less balanced, rather fast swing weight. A lower moment of inertia is put in the barrel. With the lower moment of inertia, an object rotates fast.  As a result, the bat gets a super fast swing speed as well well control.

If you are a pure power hitter, we would not recommend this bat for you. Mainly the batters who love to play with swing and speed, the bat is a perfect fit for them. 

Tightened Production Tolerance

The barrel diameter of the bat is made with a maximum limit for both BBCOR and USSSA both. As a result, you will get a larger barrel with a larger sweet spot. Consequently, the contact ability of the bat is increased dramatically. 

The USSSA bat’s sweet spot is especially to be discussed. I have just wondered by seeing and feeling the larger sweet spot. As I mentioned before, players who love to play with swing and contact hitting might be going to find a dominating bat for the plate. 

Ring-Free Barrel, Custom Molded Taper, and Micro-Perforated Grip

Like the composite one, these things are also implemented in the alloy ones too. So, these are not be explained again elaborately. 

By the way, I have found the same ring-free barrel. Also, there are no dead spots. The taper is designed ergonomically, which brought more control over the bat. And the micro-perforated grip is as before. 

Multi-Variable Wall Design

The barrel wall is thinner and the multi-wall barrel design features a larger sweet spot. As a result, the batt allows entire barrel-centric performance instead of the only center-centric sweet spot. 

Performance

Okay, now let’s talk about the main aspect. What is the performance of the Marucci CAT X USSSA bat? Is it able to fulfill the demand of a contact hitter? 

I would say the performance is pretty much near perfection. The larger sweet spot amazed me, already I have mentioned. The barrel is designed with a pretty large sweet spot so that the ball doesn’t get a chance to miss contact. 

The USSSA 1.15 BPF is pretty allowable to hit a higher exit velocity. So. combining the larger sweet spot and higher trampoline effect, the CAT X alloy does a great performance and good batted ball speed.  

On the other hand, it seems to me that the bat is pretty stiffer and more durable enough. As we are not saying that the bat will last a long as it is just released some days ago. 

But, we can expect from the past that the CAT X will be a longer durable abt, no doubt. If there is no accident happens, you might hope for at least a 3-year consistent service from the bat.

Another great thing remains. The sound of the bat. The “binnnggg” sound is pretty satisfying. The sound helps to get the next ball hit to the bat enthusiasts, no doubt. 

By the way, I would give a 9 out of 10 for the performance of the bat as well as the build quality. 

Certifications

The CAT X alloy has both BBCOR and USSSA certifications. As a result, you will find both drop weight -3 for BBCOR and drop weight -5, -8, and -10 for the USSSA ones. The BBCOR bat has a barrel diameter of 2 ⅝”, and the USSSA-certified ones have a maximum barrel diameter of 2 ¾”. 

Pricing

The price category of the bat is what is exactly to be. You will find the BBCOR ones for around $400 and the USSSA ones for around $300. Regarding the build quality, the price seems okay. But, 

What I Liked Most About the Bat

• The build quality.
• Stiffness.
• Sound.
• Larger sweet spot.
• Trampoline effect. 

What Could Be Better

• There is a painting issue. The red paint of the bat is scratched off in some areas of our unit. 

Marucci CAT X Connect 2023 Review

Let’s talk about the last CAT X of our tested ones. This one is Marucci CAT X connect hybrid. No more ado, just let’s drive to the points. 

Construction

Simply put, the Marucci CAT X Connect is a two-piece constructed hybrid bat. It is made of an alloy barrel, and a longer composite handle. 

We already have discussed the materials in the previous two ones. And, here, you will find the mixture of them. 

So, this will not be a long talking, by the way. 

However, Marucci used their high-grade AZR alloy for the barrel. So, you know already, the AZR alloy barrel is much more responsive, durable, and gives an ultimate good performance. 

On the other hand, the S-40 composite handle is used. We already have mentioned, that the S-40 composite handle is much enough stiffer. So, the combination of the AZR alloy barrel and the S-40 composite handle made it a such piece of art. 

Also, the composite and alloy combination keeps the price at a middle point compared to the composite and alloy one separately. 

More to see: The Best Marucci Baseball Bats To Get In 2022

Connection

Like the composite two-piece, the hybrid one also used the OLS connection system where the barrel connects the handle from the outer side. The ultimate result of the OLS connection system is pretty amazing that giving almost no vibration and stings. 

Swing Weight

The most significant fact of the bat is, that it is negligibly balanced, but mainly power loaded (end-loaded). So, this bat is not actually for the contact hitter actually, but for the power hitters. 

But, the great thing is, the slightly added balanced design dramatically helps for a faster swing, which seems great to us during testing. Also, the surface of the barrel is designed with the highest level of broader to ensure a larger sweet spot. 

The high moment of inertia of the bat with an end-loaded factor ensures the maximum power hitting. 

Other Facts

The other facts are the same as the previous ones. No dead spot, micro-perforated comfortable grip, custom molded handle taper, and multi-variable wall design, all give the same performance as previous ones. 

Performance

We have got something pretty with the Marucci CAT X Connect BBCOR. The combination of the composite handle and the alloy barrel expectedly did great in exit velocity. We have the fastest exit velocity and average fastest exit velocity from the CAT X Connect BBCOR. 

Okay, this was expected because the bat is end loaded. However, the performance is ultimately up to the mark. But one thing about the bat is, that the CAT X Connect is heavier compared to the other two. 

Certifications

By the way, the CAT X is both BBCOR and USSSA certified. We have tested the BBCOR one, mentioned already. 

Pricing

The pricing is good for the bat. As it is a combination of alloy and composite, the pricing is also to be balanced. You will find the bat around for $400. 

What I Liked Most About the Bat

• Great power.
• Balanced pricing.
• The design and look. 
• The vibration control system. Found almost zero vibration. 

What Could Be Better

• We haven’t found any drawback till now. 

Special Suggestion - Marucci CAT series is one of the most expensive baseball bats on the market. If this series is beyond your budget or you are just beginning your baseball career then I think you have a better option. Marucci F5 is THE BEST budget bat right now. This is a very good alternative to the CAT series. Please read the review to learn more. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Marucci making a bat for 2022?

Marucci CAT X 2023 lineup is being made in 2022. Aside from this, Marucci has brought their other series too, like CAT 9 composite connect pastime, F5, Marucci ECO, etc. 

2. Is Marucci making a CAT 10?

We currently don’t have any information about the Marucci CAT 10 yet. CAT 10 is not in production, and nobody knows when it will come. Instead of CAT 10, Marucci brought CAT X into the market. 

3. What is Marucci Pro finish?

Marucci Pro X finish is Marucci’s one of the hardest finishes for their wooden bats. Basically, they implement the pro x finish in the premium-grade wooden bats that become more resistant to dents. 

4. What is the Marucci CAT series?

Marucci cat series is one of the legendary metal baseball Ines up of Marucci sports goods company. The CAT series first came on the market back in 2009. Since then, the CAT series got peak popularity among baseball hitters for their performance, durability, and enthusiasm. Currently, Marucci brought its latest CAT family member, the CAT X lineup. 

5. Is Marucci CAT 9 baseball approved?

Yes, CAT 9 is approved for BBCOR, USSSA, and the USA, making based on the rules and regulations of the authorities. 

Final Verdict

As we have got the information, probably the Marucci CAT X is going to replace the CAT 9 series. By the way. This is not yet proven. But, it is certain that Marucci brought something special to the market.

We have done our best and tried out the bat for a longer time. However, we could not use the bat in real games though. 

But, we are hoping the Marucci CAT X lineup is going to dominate the plate with its performance. And the hype that CAT X creates is not false, by the way. 

Jason Butler

Hello everyone. My name is  Jason Butler, and I live in California, America. I was a professional AAA Minor League Baseball player. I lost my chance of playing MLB for injury issues, but I did not lose my love for baseball. I attended the coaching training program and am now working as a coach in a small school in San Diego. 

I always love to share my experience and knowledge if that can help you. Play baseball, and stay fit.