Fungo Bats

Douglas Green
17 min readMay 17, 2024

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Looking for a fun way to enhance your baseball practice sessions? Grab a fungo bat and get ready to experience the thrill of hitting! In this roundup article, we’ve gathered the most popular fungo bats on the market, ensuring you find the perfect one for your skill level and preferences.

The Top 15 Best Fungo Bats

  1. Mizuno Navy Blue Pro Fungo Baseball Bat — Experience the versatility and durability of the Mizuno Pro Fungo Bat — Navy, a lightweight, high-gloss hybrid fungo designed for both infield and outfield work.
  2. Rawlings Maple Fungo Bat — 37 in — Get the perfect grounder or fly ball every time with the durable and versatile Rawlings Natural Maple Fungo Bat — 37 inches, designed to enhance your players’ defensive skills and improve defense consistency.
  3. Mizuno Pro Fungo Softball Bat — High Performing Training Tool — The Mizuno Pro Fungo Softball Bat, available in a 34-inch length, boasts a versatile poplar core for lighter weight and delivers excellent durability with its maple hybrid construction, making it the perfect option for both infield and outfield work.
  4. Performance Grade Louisville Slugger Fungo K100 Training Bat — 36 — Louisville Slugger Fungo K100 Training Bat — 36": A high-performance, lightweight fungo bat made from Performance grade ash, perfect for easy swings and long, natural strikes for infield and outfield practice.
  5. Rawlings Maple Fungo Bat: Natural/Black 34 — Experience unparalleled precision and durability with the Rawlings Maple Fungo Bat, designed to elevate your defensive game and deliver consistent fungo swings.
  6. Diamond Pro Fungo Bat: 35" Matte Black for Pro Baseball Practice — Swing with confidence and power with the Diamond Pro Fungo Bat’s premium pro-grade wood construction and durable barrel design, available in matte black and four other stylish colors.
  7. Marucci Aluminum Fungo Bat — Perfect Pitching Partner — The Marucci MTRBFA Aluminum Fungo Bat is a high-quality, professional-grade tool, designed by former big leaguers and made with the player in mind, perfect for those looking to excel in their game.
  8. Mizuno Pro Carbon Fungo Baseball Bat — Unleash your potential with the Mizuno Pro Carbon Fungo Bat, featuring innovative carbon composite technology for superior durability, unmatched control, and outstanding feel.
  9. California Fungo Bat for Baseball Training — Experience the versatility and performance of the Fungo Bat, perfect for both softball and baseball training with a 16-ounce weight drop, 35-inch length, and 2 1/4-inch barrel — available in 18 colors to match your team spirit.
  10. High-Quality Black-Finished Fungo Bat for Professional Coaches — Experience the unmatched performance and durability of the Akadema Fungo Bat, hand-crafted with premium Northern White Ash and designed specifically for professional coaching needs.
  11. DeMarini Fungodelic Pro Maple Wood Fungo Baseball Bat — The DeMarini Fungodelic Pro Maple Wood Composite Fungo Bat delivers optimal durability, traditional wood barrel feel, and precise ground ball and fly ball hitting, making it the ultimate fungo bat!
  12. Durable Maple Wood Fungo Baseball Bat — Perfect for Coaches and Players — The Brett Bros. 36" Maple Wood Fungo Baseball Bat is a top choice for coaches seeking a durable, lightweight, and cost-effective option for hitting ground and fly balls in infield and outfield practice.
  13. Louisville Slugger Maple Fungo Baseball Bat G160 — Unleash confident swings and precise hits with the Louisville Slugger G160 Maple Fungo Baseball Bat, expertly designed for professional feel and powerful performance on the field.
  14. High-Performance Bamboo Men’s Fungo Bat — Swing with ease and superior durability- Introducing the BamBooBat 34 inch Fungo Bat, the ultimate coaching tool for infield and outfield use.
  15. Poplar Flylite Fungo Bat with ExoArmor Top Coat — Crafted from ultralight Poplar wood, the Louisville Slugger MB37 37" Poplar Fungo Bat offers a classic design and easy-swinging action, perfect for infield and outfield training.

As an Amazon Associate, I receive compensation through qualified purchases at no cost to you.

Reviews

Mizuno Navy Blue Pro Fungo Baseball Bat

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The Mizuno Pro Fungo Bat is a versatile and durable fungo designed for infield and outfield work. With its lightweight design, it’s easy to swing and perfect for grounders and pop flies.

The high gloss finish gives it a premium look, while the wood handle provides excellent feel and sound. However, some users might prefer a slightly heavier bat or a taper to the knob. Overall, the Mizuno Pro Fungo Bat is a great choice for players of all skill levels, offering balanced performance and durability.

Rawlings Maple Fungo Bat — 37 in

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As a baseball enthusiast, I can’t help but rave about this Rawlings Natural Maple Fungo Bat. Its maple wood design is a testament to durability, ensuring you can enjoy your training sessions without worrying about the bat breaking down. The cupped barrel allows for the perfect balance, offering an ultra-lightweight feel that’s both comfortable and incredibly responsive.

One of the features that truly stand out is the generous sweet spot. Despite being 37-inches long, it’s designed for outfield training, allowing you to consistently land the ball in your team’s hands. Its smaller brother, the 34-inch, is perfect for infielders who require a shorter reach.

However, there’s always room for improvement, and for me, that comes in the form of the slightly heavy weight. While that’s expected with a fungo, it might be a bit much for some players.

Overall, this fungo is a game-changer in improving my defensive skills and enhancing my team’s performance. The quality is second to none, and its versatility makes it a worthy addition to any coach’s or player’s collection.

Mizuno Pro Fungo Softball Bat — High Performing Training Tool

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The Mizuno Pro Fungo Bat has been a game-changer in my softball practice sessions. The maple hybrid construction gives it a solid yet lightweight feel, making it perfect for both infield and outfield work.

I love how the poplar core reduces the overall weight, allowing for a light swing. The natural handle and white barrel give it an attractive look, which is always a plus. The downside, however, is that the vibration can be quite noticeable, which might not be ideal for some players.

Nonetheless, overall, it’s a fantastic fungo bat that has greatly enhanced my practice sessions.

Performance Grade Louisville Slugger Fungo K100 Training Bat — 36

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The Louisville Slugger Fungo bat, available in a 36" length, is designed specifically for coaches to easily hit ground balls and fly balls for infield or outfield practice. The unique shape and end-weight of this bat make it lightweight and effortless to swing, reducing strain on the arms while delivering extra distance even with easy swings.

Made from northern white ash material, this fungo bat is both strong and flexible, allowing for added durability and performance. With its natural wood finish, the fungo bat looks and feels authentic, making it a great addition to any coaching setup.

However, some users have experienced issues with the bat’s grain splitting when used for fly balls during practice. Despite this minor drawback, the Louisville Slugger Fungo bat remains a popular choice for coaches looking for a high-quality, budget-friendly option for their team’s training needs.

Rawlings Maple Fungo Bat: Natural/Black 34

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When I first picked up the Rawlings Maple Fungo Bat, I was immediately impressed by its hefty and balanced weight. The natural and black finish looked sleek and stylish, perfect for a baseball practice setting. The bat was designed for a generous sweet spot, making it easier to hit the ball and maintain consistency.

In terms of durability, the maple wood material held up well over time. Despite its robustness, the bat was lightweight — a factor that made it a pleasure to handle, even during extended sessions in the field. Coaches could confidently deliver grounders and fly balls with precision.

However, I did notice a minor inconsistency. One season, the bat broke halfway through due to a grain curl causing potential weakness. But considering that this was an isolated occurrence, it didn’t deter me from using and recommending the Rawlings Maple Fungo Bat for its overall performance and durable design.

Diamond Pro Fungo Bat: 35" Matte Black for Pro Baseball Practice

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The Diamond Pro Fungo Bat in matte black instantly became my go-to bat for both practice and casual games. With a length of 35 inches, it’s the perfect size for my grip and reach. The 2 5/16-inch barrel diameter makes it easy to hit the ball with precision.

One feature that stood out to me is the pro-grade wood. It adds a level of hardness and durability that I’ve never experienced before in a fungo bat. The bat’s overall feel is sturdy and reliable, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

However, one downside I noticed is that it’s not very lightweight, which can make it tiring to hold for long periods of time. Nevertheless, the Diamond Pro Fungo Bat is still a top-notch choice for anyone looking for a sturdy and reliable bat to help improve their skills on the field.

Marucci Aluminum Fungo Bat — Perfect Pitching Partner

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Made by Marucci sports, the MTRBFA Aluminum Fungo Bat is a high-quality tool designed for players who want to perform their best. With a commitment to quality and a solid understanding of what players need, Marucci’s fungo bats are built to last and provide consistency in every use.

Crafted with professional-quality materials, the Aluminum Fungo Bat allows players to hit deep, accurate flies with ease. It has a 37-inch length and a 4.4-inch width, making it perfect for both infield and outfield practice.

Users have praised the product for its easy swing, plenty of pop, and excellent vibration reduction in the handle. Some have mentioned that the 3-inch height of the bat takes a bit of getting used to, but overall, the MTRBFA Aluminum Fungo Bat is regarded as a top-tier fungo bat.

Mizuno Pro Carbon Fungo Baseball Bat

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As a baseball enthusiast, I recently got my hands on the Mizuno Pro Carbon Fungo Bat, and boy was I thrilled to give it a try! The best part about this bat is its innovative carbon composite technology that makes it extremely lightweight, weighing in at just 18 ounces. This feature allows for better control and ease of use, especially during infield or outfield drills.

The bat also boasts a superior durability that stands up to various weather conditions, so you don’t have to worry about it holding up during practice. Adding to its appeal is the micro-whip grip, which provides a smaller diameter for a more comfortable and confident grip. However, it is essential to note that some users might experience a few vibration issues while using the bat due to its lightweight nature.

Overall, the Mizuno Pro Carbon Fungo Bat is a versatile and high-performance bat perfect for players who require lightweight yet durable equipment. Despite some minor drawbacks, it remains a top choice for those looking for an efficient and comfortable training tool.

California Fungo Bat for Baseball Training

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Say hello to the California Fungo Bat, a game-changer in softball and baseball practice equipment. Its 2 1/4" barrel is a perfect match for those looking to up their game. Designed with a poplar wood bat, this lightweight masterpiece weighs a mere 16 ounces, boasting an ideal length-to-weight ratio.

Measuring at an impressive 35 inches, this bat is not only easy to maneuver but also sure to catch the attention of every player and coach in the game. Available in 18 different colors, you can be sure to find the perfect match for your team. Say goodbye to heavy bats and awkward swings with the California Fungo Bat by your side. Don’t just take our word for it; try it for yourself and see the difference for yourself.

High-Quality Black-Finished Fungo Bat for Professional Coaches

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I recently tried the Akadema Fungo Bat during a baseball practice, and it made all the difference. The small 2" barrel and the 15/16" tapered handle felt comfortable in my grip, allowing me to swing with ease.

The 1" knob was sturdy and provided a great grip when I needed to make quick turns. What really impressed me was the “pop” it had when making contact with the ball — it was like using a professional bat!

However, I noticed a few negative aspects, as the black-finished Northern White Ash seemed to dent and chip easily, and the product is only available in a 36" length. Overall, while it had some minor flaws, the Akadema Fungo Bat proved to be a great addition to my practice routine.

DeMarini Fungodelic Pro Maple Wood Fungo Baseball Bat

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The DeMarini Fungodelic Pro Maple Wood Composite Fungo Bat is a top-rated choice for any coach or player seeking a durable, lightweight, and authentic fungo experience. This innovative bat features a composite frame that provides maximum durability while keeping the swing weight incredibly light. The wooden barrel offers a traditional fungo feel, making it a reliable tool for both ground ball and fly ball hitting.

One of the unique aspects of this fungo bat is its end-loaded design, which ensures superior control and performance when hitting either type of ball. With a 2¼ inch barrel, a 35-inch length, and a weight of 23 oz, this fungo bat is perfect for coaches and players of all skill levels.

In terms of user experience, the Fungodelic Pro Maple Wood Composite Fungo Bat has received glowing reviews. Many users praise its lightweight construction and traditional fungo feel, while others appreciate the superior ground ball and fly ball performance that the end-loaded design provides. Overall, this fungo bat is a popular and versatile choice for anyone seeking a high-quality, durable, and authentic fungo hitting experience.

Durable Maple Wood Fungo Baseball Bat — Perfect for Coaches and Players

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As a coach, I’ve been looking for a fungo bat that’s durable, lightweight, and offers great pop to hit ground balls and fly balls for my players. The Brett Brothers 36" Maple Wood Fungo Baseball Bat has been a perfect addition to my coaching arsenal. Not only does it have an impressive length, but the weight is just right, making it easy for me to swing without tiring out my arms. The uncupped barrel end allows for better control and accuracy, while the traditional knob shape provides a comfortable grip.

One of the most standout features of this fungo bat is the durability, which is a must-have for coaches who have to endure countless practices. The bat has held up well despite numerous use, and I’m confident it will last for many seasons to come. The balance is great, and the bat feels fantastic when I swing it. Plus, the beautiful maple finish adds a touch of elegance that my players love.

Overall, the Brett Brothers 36" Maple Wood Fungo Baseball Bat has become a staple in my coaching kit. Its exceptional balance, lightweight, and durability make it a top choice for any coach looking to improve their team’s ground ball and fly ball drills.

Louisville Slugger Maple Fungo Baseball Bat G160

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I’ve been using the Louisville Slugger G160 maple fungo bat for my baseball practice, and I must say, it’s a game-changer. The 36" length and weight make it a breeze to swing, especially during those intense practice sessions where energy conservation is key.

The bat’s barrel is perfect for getting a decent torque and hitting the ball at high velocities, but it’s not too bulky like some other models. The PRO Gold/Black and EXOPRO topcoat give it a premium, sleek look that screams professionalism.

However, despite the numerous benefits, personally I would prefer a slightly more flared knob for added comfort. Overall, this bat is a reliable companion for any baseball coach or player looking to elevate their game.

High-Performance Bamboo Men’s Fungo Bat

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The BamBooBat 34 Inch Fungo Bat is a standout option for baseball enthusiasts looking for exceptional durability and ease of use. Its unique composition of bamboo makes it a lightweight yet sturdy choice, perfect for both infield and outfield practice. The bat’s long barrel and hard taper contour contribute to its superior balance and smooth swing, allowing the user to transfer energy effectively.

While its quadcore technology ensures exceptional longevity, some users may find the bamboo less responsive than traditional materials. Overall, this fungo bat offers an exceptional blend of performance and durability, making it a popular choice among coaches and players alike.

Poplar Flylite Fungo Bat with ExoArmor Top Coat

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This MB37 Fungo Training Bat from Louisville Slugger is a 37-inch fungo bat made from lightweight poplar wood. It’s perfect for coaches and players looking to work on their skills in a controlled and effective manner. With a length that offers a balanced charged for both infield and outfield practice swings, this fungo bat helps players master their techniques and boost their confidence on the field. Featuring an eye-catching black barrel with iconic Louisville Slugger logos, the bat stands out with style while offering exceptional performance.

Despite its great design and functionality, this Louisville Slugger Fungo Training Bat has been reported to have some durability issues according to user reviews. Some users have noted that the clear coat comes off after just a few uses, and the wood itself can splinter unexpectedly. This might be a concern for players who rely on their bat for consistent gameplay and practice, so be sure to consider these findings before making your purchase.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our buyer’s guide for Fungo Bats! In this section, we’ll discuss the key features to consider when purchasing a Fungo Bat, as well as some general advice for finding the perfect one for your needs. We’ll also cover the various types of Fungo Bats and their intended use cases.

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Types of Fungo Bats

There are two main types of Fungo Bats: wood and composite. Wood Fungo Bats are typically made from maple or ash wood, offering excellent balance and feel. Composite Fungo Bats, on the other hand, are made from a combination of materials, such as aluminum or graphite, to provide lighter weight and increased durability. Each type has its own advantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Primary Uses for Fungo Bats

Fungo Bats are designed for specific uses in the sport of baseball. The most common uses include practice and batting cage work, as well as warm-up swings during a game. Fungo Bats can also be used to throw ground balls or for line drives during batting practice. Understanding the intended use of a Fungo Bat will help you determine which one is best suited for your needs.

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Weight and Length Considerations

The weight and length of a Fungo Bat can significantly impact its performance and feel. Typically, Fungo Bats range in size from 28 to 38 inches in length and weigh between 18 and 30 ounces. Finding the right combination of weight and length will make your Fungo Bat easier to handle and more efficient for its intended use. Consider your comfort level and the intended application when selecting the right dimensions for your Fungo Bat.

Balanced or End-Loaded Design

Fungo Bats are available in a variety of designs, including balanced and end-loaded. Balanced Fungo Bats evenly distribute weight throughout the bat, providing a lighter feel in the handle and greater control. End-loaded Fungo Bats, on the other hand, place more weight towards the end of the bat, providing additional power and a heavier feel. Each design has its own advantages, and choosing the right one for your specific needs will help improve your experience with the bat.

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FAQ

What purpose does a fungo bat serve?

A fungo bat, also known as a coach’s bat, is a specialized baseball bat tailored for coaching purposes. Characterized by its lighter and smaller build compared to regular bats, it allows for better control and execution in hitting slower-moving, shorter pitches. Fungo bats are largely utilized by coaches during practice to enable players to catch and throw fungo balls, thus enhancing their fielding skills.

Moreover, fungo bats serve as a beneficial tool for fielders to warm up, facilitating effortless back-and-forth ball exchanges. They also play a significant role in batting practice, focusing on footwork and correct hitting techniques at reduced speeds, hence providing players with a distinct perspective on the game and improving their overall proficiency.

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Which fungo bats are the market’s best?

Determining the finest fungo bats often depends on individual preferences and requirements. However, well-regarded and popular brands include Rawlings, Louisville Slugger, DeMarini, and Easton. Key factors to consider when selecting a fungo bat fitting your needs comprise weight, length, handle comfort, and cost.

It is highly advisable to test multiple bats before making a purchase or soliciting guidance from knowledgeable coaches and players. Moreover, considering specific requirements and experience of individual players ensures selecting a fungo bat that aligns with optimal performance during practice or warm-up activities.

Which materials are commonly used to construct fungo bats?

Fungo bats are generally constructed using lightweight and robust materials typical in baseball bat production. Primarily, they consist of aluminum, composite, bamboo, or wooden components. Wooden bats typically surpass other materials, offering superior control and feel during usage. Composite bats, though lighter, might lack control in comparison.

Some fungo bats exhibit unique materials or specifications, providing additional benefits such as heightened durability or a more natural feel when hitting. However, finding a fungo bat that complements the individual user’s preferences and needs, as well as ensuring optimal performance in practice sessions or warm-ups, is of utmost importance.

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What distinguishes fungo bats from regular baseball bats?

The primary distinctions between fungo bats and regular baseball bats lie in their design, weight, and intended use. Fungo bats are smaller and lighter, making them more manageable and controllable, particularly during fielding practice and batting practice sessions that emphasize footwork and precise hitting techniques. Their primary purpose is to support coaches, players, and fielders in hitting fungo balls and engaging in throwing and fielding practice.

In contrast, standard baseball bats are designed explicitly for game situations, with increased weight and length. Their principal objective is to hit the ball at high speeds during actual games. A myriad of styles and materials are utilized in constructing regular bats, catering to various playing styles and preferences.

Can fungo bats be utilized in baseball games?

Fungo bats are not intended for actual baseball games, as they are specifically crafted for coaching and practice purposes. Regular baseball bats are engineered to strike the ball at high speeds during gameplay and are generally heavier and longer than fungo bats. The primary aim of employing a fungo bat during practice is to improve communication between the coach, batter, and fielders and provide an avenue to refine fundamental skills such as footwork, positioning, and arm strength in a low-stress, regulated environment.

Although fungo bats can technically be used in games if necessary, it is not advised as it could compromise player safety and impact game quality. Thus, fungo bats should primarily serve for practice and warm-up activities, surrendering regular bats for actual gameplay.

What should be the ideal length of a fungo bat?

The fungo bat’s length should be proportional to the player’s height and comfort level. Its dimension affects control and overall usability. Typically, fungo bats vary from 27 inches to 33 inches in length, with some brands offering even shorter bats specifically designed for youth or players with smaller hands.

As a guideline, the fungo bat’s length should be around 2 to 3 inches shorter than the player’s height. However, individual preferences may differ, and it is vital to select a length suitable for the player’s needs, comfort, and intended use of the bat. Experimenting with diverse bat lengths during practice is an effective way to ascertain the most suitable fungo bat for the player.

As an Amazon Associate, I receive compensation through qualified purchases at no cost to you.

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Douglas Green
Douglas Green

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