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56 • November 2020 sportstyle • sportstylemag.com tech: PRODUCTS I t was only 40 years in the making, but all of the baseball bat innovations have led up to a breakthrough bat from Easton called the B5 Pro Big Barrel. The Green Easton, which debuted in 1978 and gained legendary status with high school and college players, is back in this new version. The revamped bat debuts at a time when baseball in America is struggling due to the coronavirus, but Easton president Dan Jelinek says there was never any thought about delaying the much-anticipated relaunch of the iconic bat. "It is certainly a challenging time to get consumers' attention now, but at the same time this is such a unique launch for Easton that we are confident with this," he says, explaining that the new bat takes the old, simple design of the original Green Easton and builds on the look and reputation. "The inside of the bat is a whole new engine," he adds. That engine brings with it a $350 MSRP for a bat being marketed to high school and college players through sporting goods and specialty baseball retailers, team dealers and internet specialty outlets. The new B5 Pro features a ringless barrel with varying wall thicknesses. The Advanced Thermal Alloy Construction (ATAC) produces a bigger sweet spot and smoother feel and, combining its construction with Easton's Speed Cap, the B5 Pro also provides a flexible and responsive barrel. Additionally, the bat's Natural Pro Balance Swing Weight results in a bal- anced feel for both speed and power. Its Extra-Stiff ATAC Alloy Handle transfers energy, while its VRS Handle Insert rein- forces the handle to reduce vibration and create an even more solid feel. The B5 Pro also has a premium grip, which provides a combination of cushion and tack. Sizes include: 30"/27 oz., 31"/28 oz., 32"/29 oz., 33"/30 oz., 34"/31 oz. "The entire Easton team is deeply proud of this latest achievement and excited to be bringing back one of the most iconic bats in our company's storied history," Jelinek adds. "Almost 42 years ago, Easton introduced the original B5 Pro Big Barrel bat to the baseball world and it forever changed the game for millions of amateur players. It set the standard for bat inno- vation then and ever since. "Now, the Green Easton is back and we believe the performance will be as transformative for today's players as it was before." n By Michael Jacobsen Seven new products that are bringing technology to playing fields and courts across America- 1. Green At Bat MORE TECH! TECH STORIES

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