2015 Marucci CAT5 Squared BBCOR Bat Review
An early link in the CAT dynasty. The CAT5 Squared is a balanced, one-piece AZ3000 alloy bat with ring-free barrel construction and the clean, traditional feel Marucci built its reputation on.
The Score
How we score ↗How big and forgiving the barrel is — based on barrel length, construction (one- vs two-piece, alloy vs composite), and how it plays on balls hit off the center. A primary driver of the overall score.
Raw exit velocity and distance. We use measured numbers from freely available independent testing when they exist; otherwise construction and consensus, judged against the certification’s performance ceiling. A primary driver of the overall score.
Comfort and feedback on contact — vibration dampening from the knob/connection, the sting of a stiff one-piece vs a smooth two-piece, and the sound off the barrel. A primary driver of the overall score.
How well it holds up and how the company stands behind it — documented cracking/denting reports, cold-weather behavior, and the brand’s real warranty record. Good to know, but weighted lightly in the score.
Our take on price-for-performance — the overall package weighed against its cost and what comparable bats run. Shown for context; it is NOT factored into the overall score (price changes too often and is personal).
Why this score: The CAT5 Squared scores well on the Marucci staples: a balanced swing, durable alloy, and clean feedback at a budget price. Sweet spot and power sit mid-pack because it predates the multi-variable wall designs that made later CATs hit so much bigger.
Our Review
Before the CAT6, CAT7, and CATX made the line a juggernaut, the CAT5 Squared established the formula: a balanced, one-piece aluminum bat with an honest, professional feel. Its AZ3000 alloy and ring-free barrel give a consistent sweet spot with no dead spots, and the balanced swing keeps it quick and versatile across hitter types. As a one-piece it will sting more on mishits than a two-piece hybrid. One caution buyers should know: certain longer lengths of this model had certification variance issues in their day, so verify any used bat is a currently legal size before buying. For a hitter who wants pure alloy feedback at a budget price, it is a solid pickup.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Balanced one-piece swing with a clean, traditional feel
- AZ3000 alloy ring-free barrel has no dead spots
- Budget-friendly entry into the CAT lineage
Cons
- One-piece alloy stings more on off-center contact
- Certain lengths had past certification variance, so verify legality
Full Specifications
| Brand | Marucci |
|---|---|
| Model | CAT5 Squared |
| Model Year | 2015 |
| Certification | BBCOR |
| Sport | Baseball |
| Construction | One-piece aluminum (AZ3000 alloy, ring-free barrel) |
| Model # | MCB2 |
| Drop | -3 |
| Barrel | 2 5/8" |
| Swing Weight | Balanced |
| MSRP | $199 |
Where to Buy
2015 Marucci CAT5 Squared BBCOR Bat — FAQ
Is the 2015 Marucci CAT5 Squared a good BBCOR bat?
We rate it 7.3/10 (Grade B). An early link in the CAT dynasty. The CAT5 Squared is a balanced, one-piece AZ3000 alloy bat with ring-free barrel construction and the clean, traditional feel Marucci built its reputation on.
What drops does the CAT5 Squared come in?
The 2015 CAT5 Squared BBCOR comes in -3.
Is the Marucci CAT5 Squared BBCOR-legal?
Yes — it's BBCOR certified by the WSU Sports Science Lab. Certified to the BBCOR .50 standard — the barrel is regulated to perform like wood, so it’s legal for high school and college.
How much does the 2015 CAT5 Squared cost?
MSRP is $199. We list the lowest price across CheapBats and Amazon on this page.
New to buying bats? Read our bat sizing guide, certifications explained, or browse all guides.
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