FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FEDERAL WAY, Wash. (March 8, 2010) – Last week Baden Sports, Inc. announced that its Axe™ line of baseball bats received full approval to be used in professional games. Previously, the Axe™ line was granted “provisional” approval. However, full approval was granted after players in spring training expressed sufficient interest in using Axe bats during the 2010 campaign.

“Professional approval is a significant step in the development of this revolutionary new bat line,” said Michael Schindler, Baden’s CEO. “The Axe handle offers real benefits to the players in terms of grain alignment, bat control and injury prevention. With this approval, now the best baseball players in the world will have access to a bat that could give them a competitive edge.”

Axe™ bats differ from traditional bats at the knob and lower handle. Rather than the traditional round knob, this shape has been ergonomically designed to fit flush in the lower hand. Roughly resembling an axe handle, the new shape gives the batter better leverage and extension. This fit also helps reduce bruising of the palm, potential injury to the vulnerable hamate bone and general hand fatigue.

Another benefit to the Axe™ is that it automatically aligns the proper wood grain to the hitting surface of the bat. Proper grain alignment insures optimal performance and reduces the risk that the bat will shatter upon breaking. MLB bat rules require that labels are placed on the “edge” grain of maple bats so that if a player hits with the “label up” he will make contact on the proper “face” grain of the wood. While these instructions are clear, it requires that batters remember to put the label up. “With the Axe, the batter doesn’t need to worry about grains and labels – he just grips it and swings,” said Max Kay, Baden’s Director of Marketing. “It takes the guesswork right out of it.”

Professional grade wood bats are the first type of Axe™ bats to hit the market. Alloy and composite bats for both baseball and softball are planned for release later this year.

About Baden: In addition to Axe™ baseball and softball bats, Baden Sports, Inc., is a designer and producer of the highest quality athletic balls in sports. Baden’s product leadership has led many collegiate conferences, professional leagues and elite coaches to choose Baden as their “Official Ball,” including Bob Knight, the winningest coach in NCAA men’s history. Headquartered in Federal Way, Wash., Baden’s dedicated sales team serves customers worldwide. www.badensports.com

 

Media Contact:
Marketing Department
Baden Sports, Inc.
253-925-0500