2021 Marucci CAT9 Pastime USSSA Bat Review
The CAT9 Pastime is the throwback-styled edition of Marucci's CAT9, a balanced one-piece alloy travel-ball bat on thermally treated AZR alloy with a massive sweet spot and AV2 anti-vibration knob.
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: The thermally treated AZR alloy and multi-variable wall give the CAT9 Pastime a notably large, forgiving sweet spot with solid alloy pop, and the AV2 knob improves feel. Swing weight is balanced and quick in the -10. Power trails end-loaded and premium composite bats, but durability and value are strong.
Our Review
The CAT9 Pastime is the vintage-styled version of Marucci's well-regarded CAT9, with the same performance under a clean retro look. It's a balanced one-piece alloy bat built on thermally treated AZR alloy, which Marucci tunes for a more responsive, forgiving microstructure. The multi-variable wall design produces a genuinely massive sweet spot, ring-free construction lets the barrel flex without dead spots, and the second-generation AV2 anti-vibration knob dampens sting at the hands. The -10 swings balanced and quick, ideal for younger kid-pitch hitters. As alloy it's stiffer than a composite and the balanced profile trades away some end-load power, but the CAT9 line's reputation for a big, forgiving alloy barrel holds up here. A solid, well-priced travel bat from a preferred brand.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Thermally treated AZR alloy is responsive and forgiving
- Multi-variable wall delivers a massive, expanded sweet spot
- AV2 anti-vibration knob softens sting on mishits
Cons
- One-piece alloy feel is stiffer than a two-piece composite
- Balanced build gives up power versus end-loaded bats
Full Specifications
| Brand | Marucci |
|---|---|
| Model | CAT9 Pastime |
| Model Year | 2021 |
| Certification | USSSA |
| Sport | Baseball |
| Construction | One-piece alloy (thermally treated AZR alloy, multi-variable wall, ring-free barrel, AV2 knob) |
| Model # | MSBC910A |
| Drop | -10 |
| Barrel | 2 3/4" |
| Swing Weight | Balanced |
| MSRP | $199 |
Where to Buy
2021 Marucci CAT9 Pastime USSSA Bat — FAQ
Is the 2021 Marucci CAT9 Pastime a good USSSA bat?
We rate it 7.8/10 (Grade B). The CAT9 Pastime is the throwback-styled edition of Marucci's CAT9, a balanced one-piece alloy travel-ball bat on thermally treated AZR alloy with a massive sweet spot and AV2 anti-vibration knob.
What drops does the CAT9 Pastime come in?
The 2021 CAT9 Pastime USSSA comes in -10.
Is the Marucci CAT9 Pastime USSSA-legal?
Yes — it's USSSA certified by the NTS lab. USSSA 1.15 BPF approved — the “hotter” travel-ball standard, legal for USSSA play.
How much does the 2021 CAT9 Pastime 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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Sources: JustBats — Marucci CAT9 Pastime -10 USSSA (MSBC910A) · LongballBats — 2021 Marucci CAT9 Pastime Alloy -10 USSSA (MSBC910A)