Mattingly has not produced ANY 2010 baseball bat models!!! They have absolutely no information on any 2010 model on their web site, no retailer (online or brick and mortar) is selling a 2010 Mattingly bat and their 2009 models are deeply discounted. I’m not sure what’s going on with the Mattingly brand but it can’t be a good sign. It would not surprise me if Mattingly bats become a thing of the past. Since I can’t review models that don’t exist, I’ve resurrected my reviews of their 2009 models to fill some space.
Okay, I’ll start by saying I hate the Yankees and therefore hate Don Mattingly. With that out of the way my review of these bats will be objective.
Mattingly bats main selling point is the V-Grip handle. The handle, somewhat shaped like a V, is designed to help you grip the handle correctly. Meaning your “door knocking knuckles” are aligned when grasping the handle. In my opinion, it’s the equivalent of the youth baseball gloves that have a notch to help kids close the glove better.
The problem is no kid in High School or College is going to be seen holding this bat, as they wouldn’t be seen wearing a glove with a notch in it. Quite frankly, any kid who’s reached puberty doesn’t want to be seen holding a V-Grip bat. It screams that the player is inexperienced and needs a crutch (sorry Donny, I’d say this even if you had played for a team I didn’t hate).
I’ve never seen these bats in the hands of a player at any age, anywhere. The bat reviews are below but my recommendation is to pass on Mattingly bats:
Mattingly Composite Bats
- Beast: one-piece bat with a stiff handle and balanced design. Besides the V-Grip they tout the Xtreme Weave Carbon construction for “maximum power and durability”. Needless to say I do not recommend this bat.
Mattingly Alloy Bats
%IMAGE%
- Ripped: 100% alloy, one piece bat with a stiff handle. Medium grade alloy (MB55Sc alloy) touting the same benefits as the Beast. It’s odd that two bats made out of completely different material have the exact same benefits. I do not recommend this bat.
- V Force: One piece, 100% alloy bat with a stiff handle. This bat is only available in youth models and consists of alloy that’s been around for over 15 years (MB75 alloy). Unless you’re playing T-Ball there are better options.
Visit My Bat Recommendations for recommendations in each category and price range.