In baseball, the glove is a key piece of equipment for any player. The type of glove used can significantly affect a player’s performance, so it’s important to understand what gloves Major League Baseball (MLB) players use. In this article, we’ll explore the various types of gloves used by MLB players, how to choose the right glove for your position, and why it’s important for players to wear the proper type of glove for their position.
Types of Gloves Used by MLB Players
MLB players use a variety of gloves to protect their hands and help them make plays. The most common type of glove used by MLB players is the infielder’s glove, which is typically 11-12 inches in length and features a wider pocket for easier scooping of ground balls. Outfielders typically use a larger glove, which is usually 12-13 inches in length and features a deeper pocket for better ball control. Catchers use a specialized glove that is much larger than the gloves used by other players, typically measuring around 33-35 inches in length. First basemen also use a specialized glove, which is typically 12-13 inches in length and features an extra-wide webbing to help scoop up errant throws.
How to Choose the Right Glove for Your Position
Choosing the right glove for your position is an important part of playing baseball. The type of glove you choose should be based on your position and the type of ball you’ll be playing with. Generally speaking, infielders should opt for a glove that is 11-12 inches in length with a wider pocket for easier scooping of ground balls. Outfielders should choose a glove that is 12-13 inches in length and has a deeper pocket for better ball control. Catchers should use a glove that is 33-35 inches in length, while first basemen should opt for a glove that is 12-13 inches in length with an extra-wide webbing to help scoop up errant throws.
Why it’s Important to Wear the Proper Type of Glove
Wearing the proper type of glove is important for a number of reasons. First, wearing the wrong type of glove can cause discomfort and can make it harder to make plays. Additionally, wearing the wrong type of glove can put you at risk of injury. For example, a catcher who wears an infielder’s glove is at an increased risk of taking a foul ball off the hands or fingers. Finally, wearing the wrong type of glove can limit your ability to make plays, as it can make it harder to grip and control the ball.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s important for MLB players to understand the different types of gloves used by players at their position. Infielders should use a glove that is 11-12 inches in length with a wider pocket, while outfielders should opt for a glove that is 12-13 inches in length and has a deeper pocket. Catchers should use a glove that is 33-35 inches in length, while first basemen should use a glove that is 12-13 inches in length with an extra-wide webbing. Wearing the proper type of glove is important for comfort, safety, and performance.