It makes a difference without a doubt. My kid is a solid lead off hitter, but he weighs 60lb soaking wet and is almost 12. He makes solid contact every swing, but does not have the mass to hit the ball long. We usually buy last years model on Amazon or just bats. It will only be $100 then. I wish bats were provided by the league, but that's not possible due to costs most times. I don't like that some kids can have a real advantage because mama and daddy can afford better equipment.