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If you’re involved with high school baseball in any way, you probably already know that the 2012 season is bringing about some major changes in the equipment used on the diamond. That’s because this season, all bats used in competitive high school baseball play must be Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution or BBCOR approved bats.This resolution regarding bats may cause some short term budgetary pain as schools move to replace older bats with the new, approved bats. But it’s hoped that when all high school baseball bats are BBCOR instead of traditional aluminum or composite bats, that the game will be a lot safer and more competitive.

There’s no question that the new bats are going to feel, and hit, different than older bats. BBCOR bats are designed with a barrel that has less give than older bats. Less give should result in reduced ball speed, and fewer injuries. And, sorry to say, that means that the 2012 season will likely feature fewer home runs than we’ve seen in seasons past.

Equipment managers and coaches are encouraged to get online and read some BBCOR bat reviews before making any purchases. This should let them know what to expect from the new gear.

All told, 2012 should be an interesting year for baseball.