Decertification of 33-inch Marucci CAT5 and Reebok Vector Bats

NFHS

Below please find link to each NFHS Memorandum regarding the decertification of two (2) bats which contain a BBCOR label:

Marucci CAT5 33-inch Memorandum

Reebok Vector TLS 33-inch Memorandum




Information on the return of the Marucci bat is as follows from the manufacturer. As information becomes available from Reebok, the information will be posted at this site:

RETURNS
DECERTIFICATION ONLY APPLIES TO THE 33-INCH MARUCCI CAT52 BBCOR.
ALL OTHER CAT52 SIZES AND MARUCCI MODELS ARE APPROVED FOR PLAY.

On February 17, 2012, the NCAA informed us that they decertified the 33-inch Marucci CAT52 BBCOR bat. The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has adopted the NCAA's ruling at the high school level. Effective immediately, the 33" Marucci CAT52 BBCOR bat will not be allowed for use in NCAA or NFHS baseball competition.

This ruling is unfortunate and we feel unnecessary, but we accept and understand that the NCAA has the authority to apply the regulations as they see fit. We realize that with great success comes a higher level of scrutiny. Some in the industry may have seen this as an opportunity to score a "technical knock-out" on a small, innovative company, but it has made us stronger and even more committed to making the best bats for the most elite players at every level of the game and to continue servicing our partners in the same way we service our Big Leaguers.

We are committed to delivering a superior experience to our athletes and will absolutely stand behind our products. If you would like to return your 33-inch CAT52 BBCOR, Marucci will replace it with a comparable Marucci bat. For more details on the return program please see the instructions outlined below in the FAQs. You may get started with your return by going to maruccisports.com/rma.

The Marucci Black and other CAT52 models remain available online or at a retail location near you. Additionally, Marucci will be launching a new BBCOR series in March to support high school teams and commemorate our partnership with over 70 colleges and universities that will swing Marucci bats this season. Finally, be on the lookout for the new Marucci batting gloves that will be worn by several big leaguers this season, including José Bautista. The batting gloves will be available this Spring.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Q: Will Marucci replace my 33×30 CAT52 BBCOR?
A: Yes. We stand behind our products and will replace your 33×30 CAT52 BBCOR with another Marucci bat.

Q: What are my options in replacing my bat?

A: You have four options to choose from:

  • Marucci will replace your 33"" Cat52 BBCOR with the newest 33"" Marucci BBCOR bat that will be available in March.
  • Marucci will replace your 33"" CAT52 BBCOR with a 34"" CAT52 BBCOR today.
  • You may upgrade to the 33"" Marucci Black today for $100.00.
  • You may choose to receive two (2) Professional-Cut Wood Bats.

A Professional-Cut wood bat is manufactured with pro-quality wood but did not meet the stringent Marucci standard for sending to a big leaguer. The bats are not model specific and will come in natural or black. Marucci will fill orders as supplies last and according to availability.

Q: How do I return my CAT52 BBCOR bat?

  • A: Follow these steps:
  • Fill out a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) form. You may do this online at maruccisports.com/rma.
  • Return your 33-inch CAT52 BBCOR, along with your RMA form and proof of purchase, to the address listed on the RMA form.

PLEASE DO NOT RETURN YOUR BATS TO THE RETAILER - YOU MUST RETURN YOUR BAT TO MARUCCI BY MARCH 31, 2012 TO RECEIVE A REPLACEMENT.

Q: When can I expect to receive my replacement bat?
A: We will process returns in the order that they are received and anticipate sending out the first replacement bats in March. For those opting to upgrade to the Marucci Black or choosing the Pro-Cuts bats, we can begin fulfilling returns immediately.

Q: Why was the 33-inch CAT52 banned?
A: A very small sample of three bats was tested and those results were assumed to apply to the thousands of bats in the field.

Q: Does this affect the Marucci Black or the other sizes of the Marucci CAT52?
A: No.

If you have any further questions regarding the decertification or return program, please call 1-888-768-8118.