2023 Rawlings Mantra 2.0 Review

Updated September 25, 2023

The 2023 Rawlings Mantra is a two-piece composite bat with a big barrel and light swing. It's a drop ten and drops nine bats that come with a new handle design for a bit more durability when compared to the 2021 Mantra, which has just about the same design. Expect a light swing and excellent performance from the 2023 Mantra 2.0.

Price Check

2023 Mantra 2.0 Video

*Note: The current bat is still under review. Our ratings will change as more information is gathered and more players get it in their hands. Expect updates.

2023 Mantra 2.0 Models

Our batters prefer the Rawlings Mantra for its large barrel, impressive tactile feedback, and resonant sound. For high school teams, the drop 10 model works well for lead-off hitters or the 3/4 spot on travel teams with fewer players. More powerful hitters may prefer the Easton Ghost, which offers greater force, but the drop 9 model in longer sizes provides sufficient impact. Additionally, players appreciated the smooth feel and the inclusion of a slot for the diamond kinetics sensor.

General Recommendations

The fastpitch bat space is ridiculously competitive. It is difficult to tell any functional difference between the different brands and models as most are lighter swinging, big-barreled two-piece composite bats with a moderately flexible connecting piece. That said, the unique feature on the Rawlings Mantra is the slot for the DK sensor--if you want/need that, then it's a great pick. Otherwise, the LXT at $20 less is attractive. Still, if you don't want the LXT and don't want the heavy and short-lived swing of the Eaton Ghost, then the Rawlings Mantra looks better than all of them.

Reviews By Model

Previous Bats

The fastpitch bat market is highly competitive, with numerous brands and models available. Most of these bats are similar, featuring lightweight construction, big barrels, and flexible connecting pieces. Therefore, it can be challenging to differentiate between them based on functionality. However, the Rawlings Mantra 2.0 stands out with its singular unique feature: a slot for the Blast Motion sensor. If this feature is what you need, then the 2023 Mantra 2.0 is an excellent choice. Otherwise, the 2022 LXT is an attractive option, priced at $20 less.

Construction

Like other premium fastpitch bats, the 2023 Rawlings Mantra 2.0 is a two-piece composite bat featuring a large barrel and lightweight swing. What sets it apart is incorporating the first-ever fastpitch knob designed for a Blast Motion attachment. The Mantra's 2.0 barrel design improves upon that of the Quatro (2020) and Mantra (2021) by utilizing a "multi-step" inner barrel instead of the floating inner barrel present in its predecessor. Additionally, the Mantra features new lizard skin grips, a new end cap, and a redesigned connection piece.

Marketing Writeup

The Mantra bat is crafted with exceptional attention to detail, using premium materials and boasting a revolutionary 3-step inner barrel design for maximum performance. The outer barrel is 15% thinner than the original Mantra. Additionally, the F2 Collar eliminates barrel drag, and the Ultra Light end cap provides a superior feel. Players who use the Mantra bat can achieve a fast, powerful, and smooth swing. The Lizard Skins grip on this fastpitch bat also delivers maximum tack and comfort, reducing sting on every contact. The innovative design of the Mantra bat also includes Blast Motion sensor-enabled knobs. It is the first bat approved for in-game use with a Blast Motion swing analysis sensor. By simply twisting the sensor into the knob, players gain valuable insights to improve their swing.