As a dedicated pickleball blogger, I’m always on the lookout for gear that can heighten my gameplay. Recently, I came across the Franklin Sports MLB Pro-Elite Thin Bat Swing Trainer—a product I initially didn’t think would have much use for my pickleball training. However, the idea of improving hand-eye coordination and swing speed piqued my interest.
This bat, measuring 30 inches in length and with a 1 1/8 inches diameter barrel, is designed for use with soft strike mini balls only, which are included in the package. Given that I often train with more traditional tools, I was intrigued by how this would fit into my routine.
First Impressions
The first thing I noticed was how lightweight the bat is—it really does allow for extended practice without much fatigue. The thin aluminum construction, while sturdy, makes it feel almost carefree to swing. This design encouraged me to really focus on my swing mechanics without worrying about heavy lifting.
Pros
Two standout benefits became evident during my sessions:
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Improved Hand-Eye Coordination: The bat’s narrow barrel and the smaller soft strike balls definitely challenged my accuracy. Just as several other users noted, this setup honed my ability to make precise contact, which is transferable to my pickleball game. It’s akin to practicing with a smaller paddle to refine touch and control on the pickleball court.
- Fun Training Tool: Both the younger players I train and I found joy in using the bat. This trainer adds an element of fun to practice sessions, particularly when trying different drills with the mini balls. It became a game on its own, and I saw noticeable improvement in coordination.
Cons
However, it wasn’t all perfect.
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Durability Concerns: Some users mentioned issues with the longevity of the mini balls. After several sessions, I began to notice some wear on these balls as well, so it could be wise to have extras on hand. The bat itself seems robust enough, but the same can’t be said for the balls.
- Not Ideal for All Ages: As noted in reviews, the bat may be short for older players or those with longer arms. While I found it manageable, more experienced athletes might want something slightly bigger to better simulate their regular equipment.
Performance Evaluation
The performance of the Franklin Sports Thin Bat exceeded my expectations. It effectively served its purpose by improving my swing speed and accuracy. I could feel the difference every time I transitioned back to my regular bat or paddle. I found myself making more consistent contact and hitting with better precision on the court.
User-Friendly with a Solid Design
The PU grip on the bat is comfortable and provides a secure hold, even during extended workouts. I appreciate the aesthetics of the design—it’s sleek, and I found myself proud to pull it out during training sessions.
In wrapping up, I would definitely recommend the Franklin Sports MLB Pro-Elite Thin Bat Swing Trainer for anyone looking to enhance their coordination and hitting skills in a fun way. Whether you’re a beginner or someone more experienced wanting to reinforce basic skills, this bat serves as a fantastic supplementary training tool.
It’s essential, however, to keep in mind the considerations regarding ball durability and length if you’re older or taller. If you’re aware of these aspects, I believe you’ll find this tool is a worthy investment that pays off at the court—both for baseball and, believe it or not, your pickleball game.
Swing with confidence using the Franklin Sports Pro Elite Thin Bat Swing Trainer! >>
