Gloves are a fundamental part of baseball, as they enable players to catch, grip and throw the ball with greater accuracy and speed. The glove is a piece of equipment worn on the hand of the fielder to help them catch and throw the ball. The glove is also referred to as a mitt, due to its resemblance to a mitten. In this article, we will discuss what a glove in baseball is called, the different types of gloves, the features of a glove, and the importance of properly caring for and maintaining a glove.
Types of Gloves
There are several different types of gloves used in baseball, each of which is designed for a specific purpose. The most common type of glove is the fielder’s glove, which is used by players in the infield and outfield. This glove is characterized by a deep pocket to provide extra protection and a snug fit.
Catcher’s mitts are wider and thicker than fielder’s gloves and feature a closed webbing to better trap the ball. They are also designed with extra padding to protect the player’s hand from the impact of the ball.
First baseman’s gloves are designed with a flat, wide pocket to make catching throws easier. The glove is also slightly longer than the fielder’s glove to provide extra reach for scooping up grounders.
Pitcher’s gloves are typically smaller than the fielder’s glove and feature a shallow pocket. This helps the pitcher to grip and throw the ball more accurately.
Features of a Glove
A glove typically consists of a webbing or pocket, a leather or synthetic palm, and a cuff or strap that is used to secure the glove to the player’s hand. The webbing is designed to provide a secure pocket for catching the ball, while the palm helps to provide a grip and control when throwing.
The cuff or strap helps to ensure the glove fits properly and securely on the player’s hand. It also helps to provide extra support for the wrist, which is important for making accurate throws.
The importance of Proper Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance of a glove is essential for ensuring its longevity and performance. After every use, the glove should be wiped clean and conditioned with a leather conditioner or oil to prevent the leather from drying out and cracking. The glove should also be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming mildewed or damaged.
If the glove becomes wet, it should be wiped and dried as soon as possible. If the glove gets too wet, it can be stuffed with newspaper or paper towels to help absorb the moisture and speed up the drying process.
Conclusion
The glove is an essential piece of equipment for baseball players and is typically referred to as a mitt due to its resemblance to a mitten. There are several different types of gloves, each of which is designed for a specific purpose. Features of a glove include a webbing or pocket, a leather or synthetic palm, and a cuff or strap. Proper care and maintenance of a glove is essential for ensuring its longevity and performance.