Easton Hype Fire vs Marucci Cat 9: Drop 10 Exit Velocity Showdown

Updated at: 16/02/2025

This article presents a head-to-head comparison of two popular youth baseball bats: the Marucci Cat 9 and the Easton Hype Fire. Both bats are evaluated in their Drop 10, 29-inch configuration using a Pocket Radar Smart Coach to measure exit velocity. Twelve brand new Fix baseballs were used for each bat to ensure consistent testing conditions. The focus is on determining which bat provides superior performance in terms of exit velocity, a key factor for young players seeking to improve their batting power.This detailed analysis provides a comprehensive comparison of the two bats’ performance, highlighting average and maximum exit velocities. We'll explore the performance differences between the slightly heavier Marucci Cat 9 and the lighter Easton Hype Fire. The results reveal a clear winner in terms of pure exit velocity, but also uncover potential trade-offs regarding durability. Ultimately, this review aims to help young players and their parents make an informed decision based on their individual priorities.

Pros And Cons

Easton Hype Fire
  • Higher average exit velocity (47.7 mph vs 45.2 mph)
  • Higher maximum exit velocity (50 mph vs 47 mph)
  • Durability concerns

Read more: Top 5 Best BBCOR Baseball Bats in 2024

Bat Specifications and Setup

This comparison focuses on two popular baseball bats: the Marucci Cat 9 and the Easton Hype Fire, both in the Drop 10 configuration and 29 inches in length. Both bats are composite.

The Pocket Radar Smart Coach device being set up
The Pocket Radar Smart Coach device being set up

A Pocket Radar Smart Coach was utilized to measure exit velocity. This device offers Bluetooth connectivity for convenient data recording and playback via a Bluetooth speaker.

Image showing the Fix balls being used in the test
Image showing the Fix balls being used in the test

Twelve brand new Fix balls were used for each bat. These are described as high-quality, durable baseballs offering excellent performance at a competitive price.

Marucci Cat 9 Performance

The Marucci Cat 9, weighing in at 20.8 ounces (1 lb 4.8 oz), produced an average exit velocity of 45.2 mph across 12 swings.

A reading from the Pocket Radar during Cat 9 testing
A reading from the Pocket Radar during Cat 9 testing

The maximum exit velocity recorded for the Cat 9 was 47 mph. The results showcase consistent performance with several line drives.

Summary of the Cat 9 exit velocity results
Summary of the Cat 9 exit velocity results

While providing decent speed, the Cat 9 might not be the top performer in this particular comparison.

Easton Hype Fire Performance

The Easton Hype Fire, slightly lighter at 19.8 ounces (1 lb 3.8 oz), demonstrated a clear advantage in exit velocity.

The batter beginning to test the Easton Hype Fire
The batter beginning to test the Easton Hype Fire

It delivered an average exit velocity of 47.7 mph, with a maximum speed of 50 mph, exceeding the Cat 9 by approximately 3 mph.

A reading from the Pocket Radar for the Hype Fire, showing a high number
A reading from the Pocket Radar for the Hype Fire, showing a high number

One outlier reading of 59 mph was discarded, suggesting the need for careful data analysis and interpretation.

The summary of Easton Hype Fire exit velocity
The summary of Easton Hype Fire exit velocity

Conclusion and Recommendation

The Easton Hype Fire emerged as the clear winner in this exit velocity showdown, outperforming the Marucci Cat 9 by roughly 3 mph in both average and maximum velocities.

Summary screen showing the comparison between both bats
Summary screen showing the comparison between both bats

While the Easton Hype Fire boasts superior exit velocity, the review mentions potential durability concerns, a factor to consider.

The choice between these two bats depends on the individual's priorities: prioritizing maximum exit velocity might favor the Hype Fire, while durability concerns might make the Cat 9 a more attractive option.