How to Choose the Baseball Infielder's Mitts
Everything You Need To Know Before Choosing Baseball Infielder's Mitts
What Are Baseball Infielder's Mitts?
Baseball infielders' mitts, also known as gloves, are specialized pieces of equipment used by players who primarily play in the infield positions, such as the shortstop, second baseman, third baseman, and sometimes the first baseman. These mitts are designed to provide protection and aid in fielding ground balls and making quick throws.
Types Of Baseball Gloves
With 9 different positions on a baseball field, there will be different glove types that are dependent on a player’s position. Each type of baseball glove features different specifications, sizes, padding, etc. to allow a player at their respective position to perform their best.
- Infielder's Gloves:
Infielder's gloves cater to second basemen, third basemen, and shortstops. They are characterized by their smaller size and shallower pocket compared to pitcher's gloves and outfielder's gloves. The smaller design allows infielders to field the ball quickly and transfer it to their throwing hand for making strong throws and recording outs. - Outfielder's Gloves:
Designed for left fielders, center fielders, and right fielders, outfielder's gloves are larger than infielder's gloves and have a deeper pocket. Outfielders prioritize securing the ball, so they need a bigger glove and deeper pocket to ensure the ball remains secure while running, diving, or making routine plays. - Catcher's Mitts:
The catcher's mitt is a highly unique glove tailored to provide support, durability, and protection for players behind the plate. Catchers frequently handle high-speed pitches, often exceeding 95 MPH. The catcher's mitt includes added protection on the thumb and pinky to instill confidence and comfort in handling these challenging pitches. - First Baseman's Mitt:
Designed exclusively for first basemen, the first baseman's mitt enables the player to handle various types of throws with ease. Its large and deep pocket assists in securing routine throws and offers better control when dealing with balls thrown in the dirt. - Pitcher's Gloves:
Pitcher's gloves share similar specifications with infielder's gloves, with only a slight difference in size, usually about a quarter of an inch larger. However, the size is primarily a matter of personal preference. The key distinction lies in the webbing, as pitcher's gloves are designed with a web to conceal the baseball from the batter during the pitch. - Training Mitts:
To refine their skills, many infielders and catchers use specialized training mitts during practice sessions. These training mitts help them enhance their performance and develop their abilities further.
Things to consider when choosing Baseball Gloves
There are a lot of options when trying to decide on the right baseball glove. Differing materials, web types and intended playing positions can influence your pick. Knowing these factors from the start can help you better understand how to choose the right glove for your game this season.
Material
Baseball gloves are available in various materials, each providing a distinct sensation on the field. Synthetic leather, for instance, requires no "break-in" period and is effortless to close. This lightweight choice is particularly suitable for younger players. As athletes progress in age and advance to higher leagues, softened, oil-treated leather becomes a preferred option due to its easy break-in process and game-ready feel.
For those seeking the highest quality, Premium or Pro Series leather is unmatched in craftsmanship, durability, and comfort. This material, once broken in, conforms superbly to the shape of your hand, enhancing the overall experience on the diamond.
Baseball Glove Web Types
Following the selection of materials, you have the option to choose from various web patterns for your glove. Apart from enhancing its style and design, each web type can provide additional advantages to your mitt.
Fit, Feel and Style
While the two crucial factors influencing the right glove selection for your needs are age and field position, personal preferences also play a significant role. Here are some straightforward guidelines to consider:
- Fit: Opt for a glove that fits snugly, avoiding buying one that is too large, as it may hamper your performance.
- Feel: Your glove should strike a balance between stiffness to provide strength and flexibility to ensure control and quick responses.
- Style: Select a glove with a look and color that suits your taste and personality.
Finding A Glove For Your Position
To unlock your full potential, selecting the right baseball glove based on your position is crucial. Here are some guidelines to consider:
- Catchers should opt for a fingerless mitt with substantial padding to minimize the impact of the pitcher's throw. The claw-like shape aids in catching pitches effectively and provides a clear target for the pitcher. You can find more tips on choosing a catcher's mitt in the accompanying Pro Tips.
- Pitchers usually use a glove with closed webbing to conceal the ball better. Since fielding isn't their primary focus, these gloves feature less padding. For detailed guidance on purchasing a baseball pitcher's glove, refer to the provided link.
- First basemen require a long and wide mitt for scooping up grounders from the dirt. The extended design also facilitates receiving throws from infielders. A deeper pocket ensures secure ball retention. Check out the Pro Tips for further assistance in choosing a first baseman's mitt.
- Infielders benefit from a five-fingered glove with a shallow pocket, allowing for quick transfers and releases. If you're looking to buy a baseball infielder's glove, the provided tips will be helpful.
- Outfielders need a deeper pocket to catch fly balls with ease. Additionally, a longer glove can extend a player's reach and range.
Ultimately, the best baseball glove for you is the one you feel most comfortable with. Utilize these Pro Tips to find the perfect mitt that complements your playing style and add it to your baseball gear this season.
