What Is A Utility Baseball Glove?

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The correct glove for your position is a key consideration when selecting a glove. You’ll want a glove that’s matched to the demands of your position, depending on what position you play.

Infield Gloves

Infield gloves are usually the tiniest on the field. They have a shallower pocket, making it easier for infielders to rapidly move the ball from their glove to throw out baserunners. Infielders are frequently mistaken for needing larger gloves, however even professional baseball players utilize gloves as small as 11.25″ to move the ball fast. Infield gloves for youth players range in length from 10.75″ to 11.75″. Baseball gloves for high school through adult range in size from 11.25″ to 12.25″. Fastpitch infield gloves are available in sizes ranging from 11″ to 12″. Slowpitch softball gloves are available in sizes up to 13″.

Outfield Gloves

Outfield gloves are often larger gloves that allow players to hunt down fly balls with more reach. These gloves have a larger pocket for securing the ball once it has been caught. Outfield gloves for baseball players range in size from 10.75″ to 12.5″ for youngsters and 12.5″ to 12.75″ for adults. Outfield gloves for fastpitch and slowpitch baseball are typically larger, measuring 12″-13″ and 13″-14″ respectively.

Pitcher’s Gloves

Pitcher’s gloves are similar in size to infield gloves and have a closed-web pattern to hide the player’s grip when throwing a pitch. They are 9″-10.5″ in length for tee-ball, 10.75″-12.5″ in length for kids, 11.5″-12.5″ in length for adult baseball and fastpitch players, and up to 14″ in length for slowpitch players.

Utility Gloves

Utility gloves are made for players that play numerous positions and require a glove that can handle both infield and outfield duties. They are typically on the larger side of the infield glove spectrum, with a closed-web design to accommodate players who also throw. Utility gloves for baseball players range in size from 11″-12″ for youngsters to 11.75″-12.5″ for adults. Fastpitch utility gloves are usually 11.5″-12″ long, whereas slowpitch utility gloves can be up to 13″ long.

What is the finest baseball glove for everyday use?

The Wilson A2000 baseball glove is the best on the market. Period. Premium leather offers long-term durability and a high-performance feel that improves with use. The A2000 is available in a range of sizes for various positions, although due to its shallow pocket, it is best used as a utility or infield glove. After breaking in, the glove develops a great flared shape, and the shallow pocket allows for quick transfers to the throwing hand. H-webbing allows for fast movement as well, albeit it is not recommended for pitchers.

Which baseball glove is the most versatile?

To determine which baseball glove brand is best for you, learn about the company, its history in the industry, and what its gloves can provide for your game:

Wilson has been involved with baseball for as long as most of us can recall. They’ve designed some of the most recognizable gloves on the market, and their sophisticated technology, quality materials, and player-inspired styles continue to improve the game. Wilson is the Official Ball Glove of Major League Baseball and USA Baseball, as well as the most popular glove brand among college, high school, and young players. Dustin Pedroia, David Wright, Jorge Posada, Melky Cabrera, Roy Oswalt, Brett Myers, Carlos Ruiz, Freddy Sanchez, Ike Davis, and Brian Wilson are all fans of Wilson baseball gloves and wear them on the field. Wilson’s drive to perfection, as well as its passion for refining the game and how it is played, has garnered them success from their inception.

Wilson is still the most popular glove among baseball and softball players all over the world. Wilson’s comprehensive collection of kid and adult baseball gloves, from the groundbreaking A2K to the high-quality, inexpensive, and accessible A800 gloves, has a glove for every player, skill level, position, and budget. They’ve even just released brand new Pro Stock Game Model baseball gloves, which are perfect replicas of some of baseball’s most popular and successful players’ game gloves, down to their particular modifications and specifications. Now you can play with the same glove as Evan Longoria, David Wright, Josh Hamilton, Brian Wilson, and Dustin Pedroia utilize thanks to Wilson 2012 Pro Stock!

  • Wilson’s top-of-the-line Pro Stock leather baseball glove, expertly constructed and shaped for the ideal position-specific web, pocket, and feel. The A2K Series is defined by its supreme performance and strikingly unique look.
  • Double Palm Construction – A two-layer leather pocket adds rigidity to the glove and speeds up the break-in process.
  • Pro Stock Select Leather is made up of the best 5% of Pro Stock hides, which are triple sorted for consistency and flawlessness before being specifically tanned.
  • Rolled Dual-Welting is made up of thin strips of Pro Stock leather that have been rolled to give them a more robust form and reduce break-in time.
  • 3X More Craftsman Shaping – Wilson’s master technicians shape and mould each A2K glove for 3 times longer than rival gloves.
  • The A2000 has been the most popular and highest-performing pro-level baseball glove on the market for over 50 years, and is still considered the best-of-the-best in terms of performance, feel, and longevity.
  • Wilson SuperSkin is available for lightweight performance, while Showcase variants are available for youth players.
  • Pro Stock Leather is constructed from top-quality American Steerhide, which is prized by professional players for its durability and distinct feel.
  • Dual-Welting – the leather edges of each finger back are exposed twice, resulting in a more robust pocket and a longer break-in period.
  • The Dri-Lex wrist liner is a breathable, moisture-wicking wrist lining that keeps the hand cool and dry while wearing the glove.
  • Exclusive designs and patterns inspired by and created by professional ball players and game experts are included in Pro Stock Patterns.
  • For exceptional performance, quick break-in, and a distinctive feel, a mix of Wilson’s favorite features and technology are incorporated into pro stock patterns with soft and durable Ecco leather. Wilson SuperSkin is available for a stronger, lighter glove, as well as Showcase models for youth players.
  • Game-ready softness and durability from ECCO Leather, which improves with age and use.
  • 2X Palm – A double-layer leather palm gives the ideal pocket shape and allows for faster break-in.
  • Low Profile Heel – opens up the palm and pocket of the glove, making it more flexible for fielding awkwardly hit grounders.
  • Wilson’s most affordable pro-level glove combines affordability and great quality. Wilson’s popular technology and premium materials are combined in the A800 series to provide a low-cost, comfortable, and high-performance glove.

After a World Series ring, nothing beats an MLB Gold Glove Award for a professional baseball fielder. It honors greatness on the field, exceptional talent, and consistent high performance in every game…and it’s presented to you by Rawlings, a brand that embodies all of those qualities in every glove they create. Rawlings baseball gloves have been connected with baseball for almost a century and a half. They’ve designed and manufactured some of the game’s most iconic gloves, providing pro and youth players with high-quality, high-performance gear that has stood the test of time for decades.

Rawlings never stops innovating, discovering remarkable new technologies, developing the newest comfort and performance advances, and using premium materials to provide you top-of-the-line gloves that outperform and outplay practically anything else on the field. Rawlings series gloves are worn by fathers playing catch with sons, little leaguers learning and loving the game, sandlot stars playing pure ball in the park, and a slew of professionals at the peak of their games across the country. Albert Pujols, Joe Mauer, Troy Tulowitski, Buster Posey, Howie Kendrick, Yadier Molina, and Derek Jeter are just a few of the players who trust and rely on Rawlings to keep their games sharp.

  • Rawlings’ top-of-the-line Pro Preferred baseball gloves are some of the most high-performing, comfortable, and versatile gloves in the game, with patterns inspired by the best MLB pro players.
  • Kip Leather Construction – a robust, malleable leather with a smooth, perfect feel that breaks in quickly and customizes to your needs.
  • Pittards Palm Lining – The performance sheepskin lining is soft and comfortable against the skin and wicks moisture away from the hand, keeping it cool and dry.
  • Tanned in Rawlings’ Tennessee facility, this lace is 15% stronger than ordinary Pro lace and has a tensile strength of 100 lbs.
  • The Heart of the Hide series, which has been worn by a slew of Rawlings Gold Glove Award winners, combines top pro-level patterns, master craftsmanship, and the world-renowned Heart of the Hide Leather to create top-of-the-line gloves that deliver outstanding performance, quick personalized break-in, and years of durable, trusted playability.
  • Exclusive leather from the heart of the hide provides an outstanding feel, long-lasting durability, and a gentle, simple break-in.
  • Albert Pujols, Ryan Howard, and Prince Fielder have all utilized this series.
  • The Player Preferred collection from Rawlings combines premium materials and performance attributes with affordability and accessibility.
  • Retro Leather Shell – a full-grain leather shell with a vintage, aged appearance.

Mizuno, despite appearing to be new to the game, has quickly established itself as an industry leader and immensely popular glove company, with little league, high school, college, and big league pro players around the country and beyond trusting its products. Their dedication to excellence, sophisticated technologies, premium materials, master workmanship, revolutionary designs, and player-first approach to the game have resulted in some of the most fascinating, high-performance, and player-preferred gloves available.

  • In these sophisticated and premium gloves, lightweight performance provides optimal control for elite play.
  • E-Lite Leather is very soft and light, allowing for optimal control and performance.
  • Weight is reduced from the fingertips of the glove, resulting in improved control and a lightweight, pleasant feel.
  • Roll Welting – adds structural integrity and support to the fingers while yet allowing for a quick break-in.
  • One of the game’s most effective and comfortable gloves is made of ridiculously soft, naturally pre-oiled, and robust leather.
  • Throwback Leather is tough, colorful, and naturally pre-oiled to break in quickly and keep its shape for years to come.
  • Ultra Soft Pro Palm Liner – a new liner with a soft finish for a truly one-of-a-kind and comfortable feel.
  • The MVP Prime strikes the perfect balance between feel and performance, with oil-soft and faultless leather and thicker stitching for comfort and flexibility, as well as a structured, solid response.
  • Thick Stitching – gives the glove a stronger structure and a firmer responsiveness.
  • Ultra-soft palm liner promotes comfort and eliminates stinging.
  • The Prospect Series, Mizuno’s top youth glove, provides young ball players with the skills they need to develop into elite fielders and pitchers.
  • V-Flex Notch – intended to precisely fold the leather for a smooth closing.
  • TPX gloves are ideal for middle school, high school, and collegiate athletes due to their professional-grade materials, innovative technology, and position-specific patterns.
  • Check out the differences between the Rawlings Pro Preferred and the Nokona X2 Elite.

Should I acquire a glove for infield or outfield?

Personal preference and posture determine whether “backs” or the area behind the wrist are closed or open. Outfielders prefer closed backs with a finger chamber for increased support, while infielders prefer open backs for more movement. You should be able to adjust the wrist of your glove to keep it snug.

Is it possible to use an infield glove in the outfield?

Infielders and outfielders require gloves with varied sizes, pocket depths, and webbing to accomplish their jobs effectively. So, if you’re wondering if you can use an infield glove in the outfield, we don’t advocate it.

In Major League Baseball, who has the smallest glove?

Addison Russell switched to the glove you see above in the middle of the season, a blonde, red, blue, and black Pro Preferred Wingtip. This colorway is one of my favorites.

Russell’s glove is 11.75 inches long and has an I-web. Russell’s previous gloves have all included Wingtip patterns, and this glove is no exception.

Carlos Correa Wilson A2000 1787 Glove

Correa has been wearing this Wilson A2000 1787 in games, which he acquired during his brief minor league stint. He’s happy with this one, but there’s no contest between it and the new one (below) in terms of beauty:

The A2000 CC1 of Carlos Correa is a fantastic glove. To match Correa’s team colors, it’s gray, navy, and orange. The CC1 is a novelty model number, but this glove is the 1787 11.75 with an I-Web. This exact glove may be purchased here.

Brandon Crawford Rawlings Pro Preferred PRO200-6KB Glove

Brandon Crawford still swings an 11.75 Rawlings Pro Preferred with an H-Web, a camel and black beauty. It’s not spectacular, but the color combination is nearly ideal. You can obtain it.

Andrelton Simmons Mizuno Pro Limited GMP400 Glove

Andrelton Simmons and his lovely Mizuno GMP400 11.5 are in a three-way tie for defensive WAR among MLB shortstops as of this writing, thus he and his beautiful Mizuno GMP400 11.5 suit perfectly on our list. This one is available here.

Elvis Andrus Wilson A2000 1788SS Glove

Andrus wears an 11.25-inch Wilson A2000 1788 glove, which is the smallest of the four. Andrus chose a simple blonde, black, and red color scheme, with Super Skin on the back. It just looks great both fresh and old. It’s available here.

Francisco Lindor Rawlings Pro Preferred PROS15ICB Glove

The Rawlings Pro Preferred PROS15ICB of Francisco Lindor is incredible. The crimson laces contrast beautifully with the black Pro Preferred Leather. The white stitching contrasts nicely with the black leather. This glove may be the prettiest of the lot in general. It’s available here.

What kind of glove did Jeter wear?

The Rawlings PRODJ2, a pattern that has been carried on by Anthony Rendon and Xander Bogaerts among others, is the same glove that Jeter used for 20 seasons, the most ever in Pinstripes.

It’s an 11.5-inch glove with an old-school basket web, which is Jeter’s signature touch.

The advantage of a basket web is that your fingertips will never get stuck in the holes, which can happen with an I-Web or H-Web during quick transfers.

History of Infield Gloves

Gloves were considered unmanly in the early years of baseball, in the 1860s and 1870s. Gloves became more frequent and vital for protection as the game grew in popularity and players improved and hit the ball harder. A pair of gloves were the first infielder’s gloves. They were leather gloves with the fingers chopped off that were worn on both hands. People began to wear only one glove on their non-throwing hand, which had additional padding and a wider pocket, by 1900. This was the start of the basic concept of gloves as we know them today.

Many advancements have been made to gloves over time, particularly infielder’s mitts. With such little time to react, infielders benefit significantly from possessing a decent glove. The most significant advancement occurred in 1920, when a web was created between the thumb and finger stalls. This resulted in a wider and deeper pocket in the gloves.

What to Look For in Infield Gloves:

  • Pitcher Gloves: Pitchers prefer a glove with a solid web because it keeps their fingers hidden while they alter their hold on the ball for the following pitch. The size of the pitcher’s glove is a matter of personal preference.
  • Middle Infielders: Smaller mitts enable middle infielders to quickly transfer the ball from the glove to their hand. Middle infielders also prefer open web gloves, such as the I-web or H-web type.
  • Second basemen: Due to their smaller weight, second basemen wear the smallest gloves. Shortstops often wear an 11.5 to 11.75-inch mitt, while second basemen typically use an 11 to 11.5-inch mitt.
  • Third basemen, on the other hand, will frequently wear a slightly larger glove, ranging from 12 to 12.5 inches in length, due to their proximity to home plate. Balls hit at third base are the most difficult to hit and arrive quickly. Furthermore, because of the glove’s great reach, they may more easily take up balls hit down the foul line.

What’s the difference between a glove for an infielder and one for an outfielder?

Baseball gloves are a classic piece of sporting equipment worn by both young and mature competitors. Baseball gloves are an important part of the game for everyone from professional all-stars to kids in their first summer league.

When it comes to selecting the best baseball glove, there are numerous possibilities. Your choice may be influenced by different materials, web types, and planned playing positions. Knowing these characteristics ahead of time can assist you in selecting the best glove for your game this season.

PARTS OF A BASEBALL GLOVE

Before you go about customizing your mitt to your playing requirements, it’s a good idea to understand the anatomy of your glove. A baseball glove is made up of several parts, each of which serves a different purpose in terms of making it simpler to catch the ball.

  • The web connects the fingers and thumb to control the ball when it hits the ground. Fielders can close their hand on the ball to keep possession by using a tightly braided piece of leather. The web catches the majority of fly balls, pop-ups, and line drives.
  • Heel: On the palm side, this is the lower section of the glove. Protects your glove and calculates when it will break.
  • Lacing: Gives the glove its shape. Leather is the ideal lacing material because it allows the laces to break in at the same rate as the glove.
  • Wrist Adjustment: A function that allows you to alter your wrist. Fastpitch and slowpitch softball are popular among youth baseball players. D-ring fasteners, hook-and-loop fasteners, and buckle systems are all included.

MATERIALS

Baseball gloves are made of a variety of materials, each with its own unique feel on the field.

  • Synthetic leather can be simple to shut and does not require a “break-in” time. It’s a simple choice that’s suitable for younger gamers.
  • Softened, oil-treated leather provides a smooth break-in and game-ready feel as players become older and progress up in leagues.
  • The highest grade leather is Premium or Pro Series leather, which offers unmatched craftsmanship, durability, and comfort. This material can better fit to your hand once it has been broken in.

With our Baseball Gloves 101 guide, you can learn more about glove materials and what they mean for your glove.

BASEBALL GLOVE WEB TYPES

Following materials, you can select from a variety of web patterns for your glove. Each web type can improve your mitt’s look and design while also providing additional benefits. The following are some of the most frequent glove web kinds and how they can affect your game.

  • Basket: Pitchers that want to hide the ball like to use this pattern. Due to the elasticity of the basket weave, basket webs can also be easier to close.
  • Trapeze: This is a popular option for outfielder gloves. The trapeze web type has a leather strap with interlaced lacing on each side and can create a deeper pocket for capturing fly balls.
  • Modified Trap: The modified trap web design is used by all pitchers, infielders, and outfielders. This style, like the trapeze web, adds a leather strip to the top of the web for added support.
  • H-Web: H-Webs are named after the H-word “When the leather posts are sewed together, they form a “H.” Outfielders and infielders, particularly third basemen, favor this site style. Dirt and debris fall directly through the open web, but it’s still strong enough to field hard-hit balls.
  • The I-Web, like the H-Web, has leather posts in a capital letter “I am in a “I” form. This pattern may be seen in the infield, where dirt and debris fall right through, making transfers and swaps much easier.
  • The single post pattern, sometimes known as a Cross Web, can provide a lot of flexibility and visibility. A single vertical leather strip is coupled with two horizontal bars in this web style.
  • Two-Piece: Two-piece web forms, like the basket web, can be useful for hiding pitches. The two leather patches can also add to the weight of the glove.
  • Single Post: This web style can provide visibility and versatility for athletes, similar to single post webs for fielder’s gloves. Two leather strips cross a vertical post in the single post, or cross, pattern.
  • Modified H-Web: This web type adds an extra top leather strip to the standard H-Web pattern. This can increase a first baseman’s catch radius, making fielding easier.
  • Dual-bar webs are made up of two horizontal leather bars that are stitched together. This creates a pocket, which can help first basemen catch and secure the ball.
  • Half Moon: The half-moon pattern contains two leather pieces linked together, similar to the two-piece web style found in fielder’s gloves. This pattern makes a snug pocket and gives you more options than other one-piece styles.
  • One-Piece: A common style for catcher’s mitts, this web pattern incorporates one enormous piece of leather. The lacing around the outside edge aids in the formation of a snug, shallow pocket.