This review dives into the performance and features of two standout pieces of baseball equipment: the Demarini Stadium CL22 bat and a pair of Rawlings gloves – the Pro Preferred and the Heart of the Hide. We'll explore the power and feel of the 28-ounce Demarini composite bat, designed to meet both NSA and ASA standards, highlighting its performance on the field and its comfortable grip. The review also addresses the importance of bat warmers, especially in colder climates, to maintain optimal bat performance.Beyond the bat, we'll examine the distinct qualities of two Rawlings gloves. The review compares the smaller, quicker 12-inch Pro Preferred, ideal for shortstops, with the larger, more versatile 12.75-inch Heart of the Hide, a favorite for its exceptional durability and handling. Ultimately, we'll assess whether this combination of bat and glove represents a "slugger's dream team," considering their individual strengths and suitability for different playing styles and positions.
Pros And Cons
- Great for slow-pitch softball and baseball
- Good for outfielders
- Swallows the ball well
- Made of great leather
- Still stiff, even after breaking in
- Quick transition of the ball
- Good for playing shortstop
- Great for hitting
- Provides good distance even on less-than-perfect contact
- Feels amazing
- 28 ounces and loaded
Read more: Top 5 Wilson Baseball Gloves: Ultimate Buying Guide
Demarini Stadium CL22 Bat: Powerhouse Performance
The Demarini Stadium CL22 is a 28-ounce, two-piece composite bat, boasting impressive power and a sleek design. Its construction is engineered for both NSA and ASA standards, ensuring its legality across various leagues. The bat's unique "thumbprint" grip adds a comfortable and secure feel.
My first at-bat with this bat resulted in a triple, showcasing its remarkable performance. Even on less-than-perfect contact, the ball still carries well, demonstrating its exceptional sweet spot. The bat's overall design and feel are superb, making it a joy to use.
Essential Bat Warmer for Cold Weather Play
Playing baseball in colder climates requires extra care for your equipment. Composite bats are sensitive to cold temperatures, and this bat warmer is an absolute game-changer for maintaining optimal performance.
This is a must-have accessory, especially in places like Canada, where temperatures can drop significantly at night. The warmer ensures the bat remains at the ideal temperature for hitting, improving its performance and longevity.
Rawlings Pro Preferred 12" Glove: Shortstop's Best Friend
This 12-inch Rawlings Pro Preferred glove (PR PR0 S20S) is a classic choice for shortstops. Its design prioritizes quick transitions and efficient ball handling, making it ideal for fast-paced plays.
The glove's smaller size allows for quick transfers and flips, a key advantage for shortstops. While this is a great glove for its position, it's not the speaker's current primary glove.
Rawlings Heart of the Hide 12.75" Glove: Versatile and Durable
My current favorite glove is the Rawlings Heart of the Hide (PRO OTB 24B), a 12.75-inch model renowned for its exceptional quality. Despite some stiffness, this glove's durability and exceptional ball-handling capabilities stand out.
This glove is incredibly versatile, suitable for slow-pitch or even regular baseball. Its size and construction make it an excellent choice for outfielders. Its build is a testament to Rawlings' reputation.
Final Verdict: A Winning Combination
Both the Demarini Stadium CL22 and the Rawlings Heart of the Hide gloves are top-tier choices for serious players. The bat is powerful and reliable, while the glove is comfortable and durable. The Pro Preferred glove is also a good option, depending on the player's preference and position.
Rawlings' quality is undeniable in this review, and the Demarini bat offers exceptional performance. These pieces of equipment are a fantastic investment for enhancing your game, improving your experience, and increasing your success on the field.