What about a Borneo or Sumatran short tail? They stay on the smaller side compared to a red blood. Reds are usually the largest with the Borneo next and the Sumatran last. They are worth a look if you have not checked them out yet.

The girth of a blood python with the weight and strength that go with it is a very impressive force. My ball python is in no way comparable to my bloods in power and strength. Even a smaller male is not in the same ballpark as a ball. I cant even compare them to my six foot BRB which is super strong compared to my balls. Bloods are very unique animals.