Depends on the type of league the bat will be used for. For example little league up to high school and other recreational Baseball leagues can use aluminum baseball bats. There has been debate and changes over the years about what aluminum alloy performs best. Wooden bats which are used in professional, some college leagues and some other recreational leagues. Typically Ash is what type of would is used. Some companies and professional players have changed over from Ash to Maple wood bats. Maple wood is more wxpensive than Ash but it is a harder wood and preferred by many pro players. Barry Bonds was one of the first "Ambassodors" of swinging Maple wood bats. Unlike an aluminum bat a wooden bat can and will break if not used properly or not making contact with ball on the "sweet spot". Although Maple is a harder wood than Ash there have been documented cases where a maple bats have broke into pieces that are dangerously sharp and jagged which could ultimately cause serious injury if player is hit with a large heavy shard of wood at high velocity.
Of course companies are trying to improve safety with bats and equipment without losing performance of the bat.
There has been continuos talk and concern from commisioner and other league officials in regard to players safety on the field. Where they stand today on this matter is anyone's guess.
I love baseball and have played for over 30 years, 12 of them professionally. Baseball is and always will be America's Past Time.
Chat with our AI personalities