2023 Rawlings Mantra Plus Fastpitch Bat Review
Rawlings's premium fastpitch composite, the Mantra+ refines the three-step barrel for big pop and adds a PowerSync joint for a cleaner feel. It is hot when healthy and now deeply discounted - but Mantra durability is the recurring question.
There's a newer version available. See the 2024 Mantra Plus — the current model → 8.0/10Price just dropped $200 — that's 44% off and a great deal right now!
Check today's price →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: Pop and sweet spot are the headline strengths and score highest. Durability drops the overall meaningfully because of repeated longevity concerns across the Mantra family. Value lands solid thanks to the current discount, despite a steep list price.
Our Review
The 2023 Mantra+ is Rawlings's flagship fastpitch composite, built on a refined three-step inner barrel that is precision-molded for more consistent performance, with impact-toughened outer layers tuned for low compression and a new PowerSync connection that further dampens vibration while keeping energy transfer high. It was also the first fastpitch bat approved for the Blast Motion swing sensor. When the bat is healthy it is one of the hotter, livelier barrels in fastpitch, with a balanced swing that fits a wide range of hitters. The honest caveat is durability: the Mantra family has drawn repeated longevity concerns, so it is best for hitters who prioritize pop and are comfortable leaning on the warranty. With the bat now selling at roughly half of its $449.99 list, the value softens that risk considerably. For the dialed-in feel and the benchmark pop we still point hitters to the Easton Ghost first.
Also worth a look: Easton Ghost Unlimited — our top fastpitch pick - the Ghost is the benchmark for feel and pop.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Refined three-step barrel produces big, lively pop when healthy
- PowerSync joint gives a clean, low-vibration feel
- Now deeply discounted off its $449.99 MSRP
Cons
- Mantra-family durability has been a recurring concern; plan for warranty use
- List price is among the highest in fastpitch
Full Specifications
| Brand | Rawlings |
|---|---|
| Model | Mantra Plus |
| Model Year | 2023 |
| Certification | Fastpitch |
| Sport | Softball |
| Construction | Two-piece composite (three-step inner barrel, PowerSync connection) |
| Model # | RFP3MP10 |
| Drop | -10 |
| Barrel | 2 1/4" |
| Swing Weight | Balanced |
| MSRP | $449.99 |
Where to Buy
2023 Rawlings Mantra Plus Fastpitch Bat — FAQ
Is the 2023 Rawlings Mantra Plus a good Fastpitch bat?
We rate it 8.6/10 (Grade A). Rawlings's premium fastpitch composite, the Mantra+ refines the three-step barrel for big pop and adds a PowerSync joint for a cleaner feel. It is hot when healthy and now deeply discounted - but Mantra durability is the recurring question.
What drops does the Mantra Plus come in?
The 2023 Mantra Plus Fastpitch comes in -10.
Is the Rawlings Mantra Plus Fastpitch-legal?
Yes — it's Fastpitch certified by the certifying labs. Meets USA Softball / USSSA fastpitch standards — legal for sanctioned fastpitch play.
How much does the 2023 Mantra Plus cost?
MSRP is $449.99. We've seen it for $249.99. 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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Sources: Rawlings - 2023 Mantra+ (official) · Retailer listing - 2023 Rawlings Mantra+ -10 (RFP3MP10)