2024 Marucci CAT8 2 3/4" USSSA Bat Review
Marucci's CAT8 one-piece alloy USSSA in a -5, 2 3/4" barrel — a stronger alloy with the AV2 knob, durable and ready to swing at $79.99.
Been on the market a while — keep an eye out for in-season price drops.
Check today's price →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: Preliminary score from the bat's construction, class, brand and price — an honest first pass we refine as we test more and any independent lab data appears.
Our Review
The CAT8 stepped up the CAT line with a stronger alloy and the AV2 anti-vibration knob for a smoother feel on a stiff one-piece. The big 2 3/4" barrel and balanced swing make it easy to control, with the durability the CAT name is known for. Strong value at $79.99.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stronger alloy with AV2 knob
- Durable 2 3/4" barrel, no break-in
Cons
- Older generation
- One-piece feel is stiffer than two-piece
Full Specifications
| Brand | Marucci |
|---|---|
| Model | CAT8 2 3/4" |
| Model Year | 2024 |
| Certification | USSSA |
| Sport | Baseball |
| Construction | One-piece alloy |
| Model # | MSBC85 |
| Drop | -5 |
| Barrel | 2 3/4" |
| Swing Weight | Balanced |
| MSRP | $79.99 |
Where to Buy
2024 Marucci CAT8 2 3/4" USSSA Bat — FAQ
Is the 2024 Marucci CAT8 2 3/4" a good USSSA bat?
We rate it 6.2/10 (Grade C). Marucci's CAT8 one-piece alloy USSSA in a -5, 2 3/4" barrel — a stronger alloy with the AV2 knob, durable and ready to swing at $79.99.
What drops does the CAT8 2 3/4" come in?
The 2024 CAT8 2 3/4" USSSA comes in -5.
Is the Marucci CAT8 2 3/4" 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 2024 CAT8 2 3/4" cost?
MSRP is $79.99. 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.
You May Also Like
Sources: CheapBats — CLOSEOUT Marucci Cat 8 Youth Big Barrel Baseball Bat 2 3/4" -5oz MSBC85