In baseball, an infielder’s glove is a vital piece of equipment that helps a player catch and field balls. It is important for infielders to understand which finger should be used to close the glove in order to ensure the best possible performance in the field. In this article, we will explore what finger should an infield glove close to, the benefits of closure, and tips for proper glove closure.
The Finger to Close the Glove
The most common technique for closing an infielder’s glove is to use the index finger. This is because it provides the most secure and comfortable grip, which is especially important when it comes to catching and fielding balls. Additionally, using the index finger to close the glove will help prevent the glove from becoming unhinged or coming off the hand.
Benefits of Proper Glove Closure
Using the index finger to close the glove offers several benefits for infielders, including:
Improved Comfort: When the glove is securely closed, it will be more comfortable for the infielder to catch and field balls. This is particularly important when it comes to making quick, accurate throws.
Increased Dexterity: Closing the glove with the index finger will help keep the glove in place, allowing the infielder to have better control of their throws and catches.
Reduced Slippage: When the glove is securely closed, it will be less likely to slip off the hand due to the extra grip provided by the index finger. This can help infielders make more accurate throws.
Tips for Proper Glove Closure
In order to get the most out of a glove and ensure proper closure, infielders should adhere to the following tips:
Position the Glove Properly: Before closing the glove, the infielder should make sure that the webbing is properly positioned and the thumb is in the correct spot. This will help ensure a secure grip when closing the glove.
Secure the Glove Firmly: When closing the glove, the infielder should make sure that it is closed firmly and securely, without too much pressure. This will help prevent the glove from slipping off the hand and ensure an accurate throw or catch.
Check the Glove Regularly: Infielders should also make sure to check the glove regularly to ensure that it is properly closed. This will help ensure that the glove remains secure and the infielder can perform at their best in the field.
Conclusion
In this article, we explored what finger should an infield glove close to, the benefits of proper closure, and tips for proper glove closure. Ultimately, the index finger should be used to close the glove as it provides the most secure and comfortable grip. Closing the glove properly can help improve an infielder’s performance and reduce the possibility of slippage. Infielders should make sure to position the glove correctly and secure it firmly before each play and check the glove regularly to ensure it is properly closed.