2027 DeMarini Zenith Fastpitch Bat Review
DeMarini's entry-level -13 hybrid gives beginners an ultra-light swing with a durable DX1 alloy barrel at $179.95.
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: Scored within the entry-level ceiling we apply to all budget non-wood bats — cheaper builds simply can't match flagship barrels, and the score says so. Swing weight is the standout, which is exactly what a first bat should get right. Brand warranty caution applies, moderated by the low price.
Our Review
The Zenith is the first-real-bat tier of DeMarini's 2027 fastpitch line: a -13 two-piece hybrid with a DX1 alloy barrel on a composite handle, an ultra-light swing, and a bright pink-and-green paint job aimed at 8U–12U players. The formula is right for the age group — alloy barrels shrug off the mishits beginners produce, the light swing keeps the barrel on plane, and the composite handle takes some sting out of hands that are still learning where the sweet spot is. Entry-level bats live and die on price, and at $179.95 the Zenith is priced against a lot of competent alloys. Our score reflects the entry-level ceiling we apply to all budget non-wood bats, with the usual brand-level warranty caution — though at this price, a warranty claim is less of the ownership story than it is on a $450 flagship.
Also worth a look: Easton Ghost Unlimited — the premium benchmark when the player is ready to move up.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Ultra-light -13 swing built for true beginners
- Alloy barrel handles beginner mishits better than thin-wall composites
- Composite handle softens sting versus one-piece entry alloys
Cons
- Entry-level performance ceiling — this is a starter bat, not a flagship
- Several competent alloys undercut it on price
- Full size run below 28" not confirmed at all retailers
Full Specifications
| Brand | DeMarini |
|---|---|
| Model | Zenith |
| Model Year | 2027 |
| Certification | Fastpitch |
| Sport | Softball |
| Construction | Two-piece hybrid (DX1 alloy barrel, composite handle) |
| Model # | WBD2732010 |
| Drop | -13 |
| Barrel | 2 1/4" |
| Swing Weight | Balanced (ultra-light) |
| MSRP | $179 |
Where to Buy
2027 DeMarini Zenith Fastpitch Bat — FAQ
Is the 2027 DeMarini Zenith a good Fastpitch bat?
We rate it 6.7/10 (Grade C). DeMarini's entry-level -13 hybrid gives beginners an ultra-light swing with a durable DX1 alloy barrel at $179.95.
What drops does the Zenith come in?
The 2027 Zenith Fastpitch comes in -13.
Is the DeMarini Zenith 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 2027 Zenith cost?
MSRP is $179. 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: DeMarini — 2027 Zenith -13 official · Better Baseball — 2027 Zenith -13 (WBD2732010) specs