2024 Rawlings Eclipse Fastpitch Bat Review
The Eclipse is Rawlings's entry-level fastpitch alloy: a light, balanced -12 one-piece bat with an extended sweet spot, aimed squarely at younger and beginning players moving up from tee ball.
There's a newer version available. See the 2025 Eclipse — the current model → 6.9/10Been 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: As an entry-level alloy bat, the Eclipse scores high on swing weight, durability and value, which is exactly what beginners need. Power, sweet spot and feel score lower because a budget one-piece alloy cannot match composite performance, and that is by design.
Our Review
The Eclipse is exactly what a first or second real fastpitch bat should be: simple, light and affordable. It is a one-piece aerospace-grade aluminum bat with an X-tended sweet spot design that lengthens the barrel for a bigger contact area, and a -12 drop that keeps the overall weight low so younger hitters can get the barrel moving. There is no break-in and no fragility to worry about, just a durable alloy bat in a bright purple and teal colorway that kids tend to love. It will not compete with composite bats on pop or sweet-spot size, and stronger or older hitters will quickly want more performance, but that is not who it is for. For beginners and younger players in rec and entry-level travel ball, the Eclipse is a sensible, budget-friendly starting point. It is approved for USA Softball, USSSA, NSA, ISA and other associations.
Also worth a look: Easton Ghost Unlimited — our top fastpitch pick — the Ghost is the benchmark for feel and pop.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very light -12 swing is ideal for younger, beginning hitters
- Durable one-piece alloy with zero break-in
- Budget-friendly entry-level price
Cons
- Alloy pop and sweet spot trail composite bats by a wide margin
- Stronger and older hitters will outgrow it quickly
Full Specifications
| Brand | Rawlings |
|---|---|
| Model | Eclipse |
| Model Year | 2024 |
| Certification | Fastpitch |
| Sport | Softball |
| Construction | One-piece aerospace-grade aluminum alloy |
| Model # | FP4E12 |
| Drop | -12 |
| Barrel | 2 1/4" |
| Swing Weight | Balanced (light) |
| MSRP | $70 |
Where to Buy
2024 Rawlings Eclipse Fastpitch Bat — FAQ
Is the 2024 Rawlings Eclipse a good Fastpitch bat?
We rate it 6.6/10 (Grade C). The Eclipse is Rawlings's entry-level fastpitch alloy: a light, balanced -12 one-piece bat with an extended sweet spot, aimed squarely at younger and beginning players moving up from tee ball.
What drops does the Eclipse come in?
The 2024 Eclipse Fastpitch comes in -12.
Is the Rawlings Eclipse Fastpitch-legal?
Yes — it's Fastpitch certified by the certifying labs. Meets USA Softball / USSSA fastpitch standards — legal for sanctioned fastpitch play.
How much does the 2024 Eclipse cost?
MSRP is $70. 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: Rawlings — Eclipse fastpitch (official) · Retailer listing — Rawlings Eclipse -12 fastpitch