2019 Rawlings 5150 BBCOR Bat Review
Rawlings' value workhorse. The 2019 5150 is a stiff, dependable one-piece alloy with a balanced swing and a bigger barrel profile than the prior year, popular from new BBCOR hitters up to D1 players.
There's a newer version available. See the 2023 5150 — the current model → 7.9/10The 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 5150 scores highest on durability and value, which is its mission: a tough, dependable one-piece alloy at a budget price. Feel and sweet spot are mid-pack because the stiff single-piece build trades forgiveness for reliability.
Our Review
The 5150 has long been Rawlings' do-everything budget bat, and the 2019 sharpened the formula. A one-piece 5150 aerospace-grade alloy frame with pOp 2.0 lasering boosts barrel flex, and a lighter Comp-Lite end cap let Rawlings grow the barrel profile over the 2018 version while thinning the handle. It swings balanced with a mid-range swing weight and a stiff, responsive feel, which is why it shows up in the hands of both first-year BBCOR hitters and seasoned college players. As a one-piece it transmits more sting on mishits than a two-piece, but the durability and the price are exactly what a budget buyer wants in an alloy bat.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stiff, hot alloy with no break-in
- Bigger barrel and thinner handle than the prior year
- Excellent durability and value
Cons
- One-piece build stings more on mishits
- Sweet spot trails premium two-piece bats
Full Specifications
| Brand | Rawlings |
|---|---|
| Model | 5150 |
| Model Year | 2019 |
| Certification | BBCOR |
| Sport | Baseball |
| Construction | One-piece aluminum (5150 aerospace-grade alloy, pOp 2.0 barrel, Comp-Lite end cap) |
| Model # | BBR53 |
| Drop | -3 |
| Barrel | 2 5/8" |
| Swing Weight | Balanced |
| MSRP | $199 |
Where to Buy
2019 Rawlings 5150 BBCOR Bat — FAQ
Is the 2019 Rawlings 5150 a good BBCOR bat?
We rate it 7.2/10 (Grade B). Rawlings' value workhorse. The 2019 5150 is a stiff, dependable one-piece alloy with a balanced swing and a bigger barrel profile than the prior year, popular from new BBCOR hitters up to D1 players.
What drops does the 5150 come in?
The 2019 5150 BBCOR comes in -3.
Is the Rawlings 5150 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 2019 5150 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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