This may have already been discussed but I still would like feedback on bat warmers since winter is upon us. Obviously, as parents we want to protect our daughter's equipment, especially since bats aren't cheap...!
Last winter, several girls on my daughter's softball team busted their bats when temperatures dropped below 40*, including my own daughter. Fortunately, DeMarini was kind enough to mail out a replacement as it was still under warranty. This winter, however, I don't want to go through the hassle of returning another busted bat.
I had noticed that PyroFlite Bat Warmer is claiming their bat warmer is ASA approved. It cites the 2010 Playing Rule Changes: Warming sleeves on bats are now approved.
HOWEVER, upon closer review of 2012 ASA Rule 3 Section 7: The characteristics of any approved equipment cannot be unnaturally changed. Examples include icing, cooling or heating of any equipment. Warming devices for bats are NOT approved.
Comment: Science has proven heating of bats with warming devices adds to batted ball speed and are now illegal.
I'm going out on a limb here and say this change now makes PyroFlite Bat Warmer or any kind of bat warmers, illegal. What is your interpretation of Rule 3 Section 7?