With the recent rule changes in USA bat standards, our son was needing a new baseball bat. After considerable research and getting to use the bat, we chose the new Easton 2018 USA Baseball 2 5/8 Ghost X Youth Bat -10.
It’s a high-performance bat that is regarded by many as the number one composite bat in youth baseball. This particular Easton baseball bat has a large sweet-spot and provides the balance and feel you look for in a bat. Especially for younger baseball players who are working to further develop their batting skills.
A new USA bat standard (USABat) was introduced into youth baseball in 2018, and it applies to many youth leagues, including Little League Baseball and the AABC leagues. This means that youth players aged 14 years and younger, have to use a baseball bat that adheres to this newly introduced standard, which this Easton Ghost X Youth Bat does.
This standard now allows bats with a barrel diameter of 2-5/8-inches. It features the green USA Baseball stamp so it immediately lets others know that it’s legal and meets the new standard.
What Are the Key Features That Matter?
Better Feel, Balance and Light Swing Weight
A combination of advanced technologies make this is a comfortable, lightweight baseball bat to use, and has the feel and balance needed to produce better performance. These technologies include the Easton new dynamic feel system, and ConneXion+ 2-piece technologies, which lowers the risk of any vibration through the handle.
2 5/8-inch Barrel Diameter and Easton X-tended Barrel Design
Its 2 5/8-inch barrel diameter gives younger players the power to hit baseballs and softballs further and more accurately. This makes all the difference, especially when younger players are still developing their skillset and growing as baseball or softball players. A longer X-tended barrel design also means this bat has a much larger sweet-spot, which is key for anyone who is serious about becoming a better, more consistent competitor.
Ultra-thin, Hyperskin Grip and Stamped Handle
An ultra-thin handle makes it much easier for younger baseball and softball players to hold this bat in the correct way. 28 to 32-inch handles are available, that have a 1.2 mm Hyperskin grip and are USSSA 1.15 BPF stamped. It’s hard to describe the comfort level this grip provides.
Different Sizes and Weights Available (10 Length to Weight Ratio)
When it comes to youth baseball bats, one size does not fit all. The Easton 2018 USA Baseball 2 5/8 Ghost X Youth Bat -10 comes in a range of different sizes and weights to suit the requirements of different players. Sizes and weights currently available include:
• 28”/18 oz
• 29”/19 oz
• 30”/20 oz
• 31”/21 oz
• 32”/22 oz
What It Will Not Do
The Easton 2018 USA Baseball 2 5/8 Ghost X Youth Bat -10 is suitable for a wide range of younger baseball players. However, older, bigger, stronger players will want to look for a heavier alternative.
Pros
Large sweet-spot
As well balanced as you’ll find in any bat
Minimal vibration when it comes into contact with a baseball
Light swing weight
Cons
Doesn’t hit as far as some of the recently outlawed bats
Bottom Line – Does It Live Up to Its Promises?
When it comes to youth baseball bats, the Easton 2018 USA Baseball 2 5/8 Ghost X Youth Bat -10 is up there with the best. It has a larger sweet-spot, is extremely well-balanced, and comes in various sizes to suit all types of youth players. These are all important factors, which have the potential to improve a player’s performance levels and increase their confidence when it’s time to bat.
The large proportion of other owners of this bat are extremely satisfied with it. The only slightly negative point is that some players have found that it does not allow players to hit a ball as far as the older Mako bat, but it is still amongst the best baseball bats available. Our 11-yr old son can get around with this bat on any fastball now.
Overall, this is an extremely high-quality youth baseball bat. From our experience, we believe it’s the best bat our son has ever used, thanks to its bigger sweet-spot and lower swing weight. He’s driving the ball better to all fields now than he has before. Hard to ask for anything more than that.