When it comes to Major League Baseball (MLB), there are a number of iconic pieces of equipment that have become synonymous with the game. From the iconic Louisville Slugger baseball bat to the distinctive-looking catcher’s mask, many items are part of the game’s culture and tradition. However, one piece of equipment that is often overlooked is the mitten that many MLB players wear. While the mitten may seem like a strange piece of equipment, it actually serves an important purpose for the players who wear it.
What is a Mitten?
A mitten is a piece of equipment that is worn by MLB players and is typically made of leather. It is designed to fit snugly on the hand of the player and is usually held in place with a Velcro strap. The mitten is most commonly seen on pitchers and infielders, though some outfielders will also wear a mitten. The mitten is typically worn on the non-throwing hand of the player, though some players will wear it on their throwing hand as well.
History and Origin of the Mitten
The mitten has been used in Major League Baseball for over a century and its origin is believed to date back to the late 1800s. It is believed that the first mitten was used by pitcher Amos Rusie in 1895. Since then, the mitten has become a staple of the game and is still used by MLB players today.
Benefits of Wearing a Mitten
The mitten serves an important purpose for MLB players and is an essential piece of equipment for many. There are a number of benefits that can be gained from wearing a mitten, including:
Improved Grip and Control
One of the primary benefits of wearing a mitten is improved grip and control. The mitten helps players to maintain a secure grip on the ball, which can help them throw with more accuracy and control. Additionally, the mitten can help reduce the risk of blisters and other hand injuries that can be caused by repetitive contact with the ball.
Preventing Injury
In addition to improving grip and control, the mitten can also help to prevent injuries. The mitten helps to protect the hand from potential impacts with the ball, which can help to reduce the risk of serious injuries. Additionally, the added padding can help to absorb the shock of a ball that is thrown with force, which can help to protect the player’s hand.
Increased Comfort
The mitten can also provide increased comfort for players. The extra padding provided by the mitten helps to reduce the impact of the ball on the hand, which can make it more comfortable for players to wear. Additionally, the mitten helps to keep the hand warm in cold weather, which can help to prevent the hand from becoming too cold.
Enhanced Performance
Finally, the mitten can also help to enhance performance. By providing a secure grip and increased control, the mitten can help players to throw with greater accuracy and power. Additionally, the added padding can help to absorb the shock of throws, which can help to reduce fatigue and improve performance.
Final Thoughts
The mitten is an essential piece of equipment for many Major League Baseball players and has been used for over a century. The mitten provides a number of benefits for players, including improved grip and control, prevention of injury, increased comfort, and enhanced performance. For these reasons, it is easy to see why the mitten has become a staple of the game and why many MLB players choose to wear one.