Alliance Fastpitch National & sanctioned events bat rules (2027)
The rule for 2027
Bats must carry the USA Softball or USSSA FP stamp.
Source: thealliancefastpitch.com · checked Oct 23, 2026
Varies by event. Bat rules here can change by state, event or league. Check your event's or league's rules before you buy.
| Stamp | USA Softball or USSSA FP |
|---|---|
| Max barrel | — |
| Max length | — |
| Drop limit | — |
| Ages | 9–18 |
Alliance-sanctioned events accept bats with a USA Softball (ASA) or USSSA stamp, per Alliance's own site. Bats on the non-approved lists, or altered (rolled or shaved), are banned. National events play NFHS rules, and event directors can add their own.
What the stamps mean
- USA Softball mark (ASA 2000, ASA 2004 or USA Softball "All Games"): The most widely required fastpitch stamp. USA Softball events also require the bat to be on the approved list and off the non-approved list. The ASA 2013 mark isn't legal for girls' or women's fastpitch. Official list.
- USSSA fastpitch mark: USSSA's fastpitch certification, permanently applied by a licensed maker. Stickers and decals don't count. Official list.
What size bat for National & sanctioned events?
Height and weight matter more than age. These are typical sizes for an average-size player, from the Rawlings/Easton sizing chart and CDC growth charts. For your player's exact size, use the Bat Finder for National & sanctioned events.
| Age | Typical length | USA Softball drop | USSSA FP drop |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 29"–30" | -12 or -11 | -12 or -11 |
| 10 | 30" | -12 or -11 | -12 or -11 |
| 11 | 30"–31" | -12 or -11 | -12 or -11 |
| 12 | 30"–31" | -11 or -10 | -11 or -10 |
| 13 | 30"–31" | -11 or -10 | -11 or -10 |
| 14 | 31"–33" | -10 or -9 | -10 or -9 |
| 15 | 31"–33" | -10 or -9 | -10 or -9 |
| 16 | 31"–33" | -10 or -9 or -8 | -10 or -9 or -8 |
| 17 | 31"–33" | -10 or -9 or -8 | -10 or -9 or -8 |
| 18 | 31"–33" | -10 or -9 or -8 | -10 or -9 or -8 |
Shop bats for National & sanctioned events
These links open bats with the right stamp. Check the exact model against the official list before you buy. We earn a commission if you buy, at no cost to you.
USA Softball bats
USSSA FP bats
Other PGF, Alliance & other travel fastpitch divisions
- NSA Fastpitch All ages (Ages 6+)
- PGF National qualifiers & Nationals (Ages 9–18)
This page summarizes the published rule. Your league or tournament can add its own, and its ruling is final. Confirm your bat isn't on a decertified or non-approved list before you buy. More bat questions.
Not sure what to buy?
The free Bat Finder gives you the length, the drop and the stamp your league requires in about 20 seconds.
Open the Bat Finder