Easton Announces 2023 USSSA Bat Roster with New Encore, Updated Hype Comp 

An update to the two-piece composite Hype Comp highlights Easton’s 2023 USSSA bat lineup. Along with the Hype Comp update comes a brand-new Encore and an updated Alpha ALX.  

Headlining the 2023 lineup is the update to the technology on the two-piece composite Hype Comp. Easton says it used test results and player feedback from the bat’s time on the market to improve on the design. A newly increased barrel length and lower barrel compression gives the Hype Comp a lighter swing weight with improved performance, Easton says.  

“Our team pushed hard to make further, meaningful improvements driven by player testing and data, continuing to help our bats perform at the highest levels,” said Matt Arndt, Easton senior vice president of product and research and development. “We were able to achieve lower barrel compression, longer barrels and lighter swing weights, and that has been met with overwhelmingly positivity by players on field.”  

John Loeffler, Easton bat category manager, said the lighter swing weight was one key component to target to help give players faster swing speeds and more barrel control.

“Other critical components we targeted and achieved in improving were our barrel compression and barrel lengths,” he said. “A lower barrel compression results in even more trampoline effect and higher performances for players, giving them a better feeling and hotter bat.”  

Longer barrel lengths allow players a more substantial hitting surface, setting them up for more success in hitting the baseball harder, Loeffler said.  

The Hype Comp comes in a -10, -8 and -5 in various lengths.  

New to the Easton USSSA lineup is the Encore series, a completely new technology for the brand being introduced into USSSA baseball. The Encore is a lightweight composite bat available in a -10 and -5 version.  

Easton continues with the one-piece aluminum Alpha ALX, available in a -10, -8 and -5. Loeffler said the Alpha provides a “high performance and durable bat for the players who love its traditional feel.”  

The line of Easton bats launched online Oct. 6 and will hit retail stores and other online outlets on Oct. 13.  

Tim Newcomb covers gear and business for Baseball America. Follow him on Twitter at @tdnewcomb.