Decisions... decisions... Selecting the right GLOVE. King: Ages 13+
With proper care and careful planning, a baseball player can only require a handful of primary gloves during this span. This does not include specialty, practice, or training gloves.
At this age, a player should be playing baseball only if they are serious about getting better at the game. The younger members of this group are positioning themselves to get into high school ball and the latter are either in high school, college, or beyond. General catching (not the position) skills should be mastered by this age and players should be in a constant state of refinement and repetition.
The appropriate primary glove should aid in the refinement process, giving you an edge at your desired position(s).
I will break down this topic into three sections:
Knight: For young kids; tee-ball through rookie ball (Ages 3-8)
Prince: For older kids; minor through major ball (Ages 9-12)
King: For teenagers and older (Ages 13+)
This post is for the King age group.
King: For players in this age group, a glove needs to elevate your performance around the diamond. In the earlier ages of this group, it is okay to get a "hybrid" glove (11.5 - 12 inches). However, for players older than that, your glove should be selected based on your primary position(s).
Wait... not all gloves are made the same?
On a baseball field, different gloves serve specific purposes and cater to the needs of various positions. In my other posts, I emphasized the defining characteristics of gloves for younger age groups, including size, handedness, and the durability of the leather/fabric. Now, let's delve into further variations, considering additional differences based on position:
Catcher: As a catcher, using a standard glove is not ideal. Instead, a catcher's mitt is specifically designed for players at this position, featuring a larger surface area and extra padding on the thumb and pinky. These features make it easier to trap, block, and frame pitches effectively.
First Baseman: First basemen utilize a special glove known as a trapper. This glove design also offers a larger surface area and doesn't have externally defined finger slots. The absence of finger slots enables the first baseman to better scoop, pick, and dig baseballs in the dirt.
Middle Infielders (Second base & Shortstop): Middle infielders typically opt for smaller gloves, ranging from 10.5 to 11.5 inches. This size allows for faster transfers during double plays, as there is less glove to navigate when making quick plays.
Third Basemen & Outfielders: Third basemen and outfielders often utilize larger gloves compared to other positions. Among them, outfielders have the largest gloves, granting them extra range when tracking down flyballs in the outfield.
Pitchers: Pitchers have some flexibility in their choice of glove. However, it is important for pitchers to have a "closed" webbing on their glove. This closed webbing prevents batters from seeing any movements or grip changes happening behind the glove. Using gloves with webbings that have holes increases the risk of tipping pitches if not handled carefully.
Understanding these distinctions enables players to select gloves that are best suited for their positions. Each glove's unique features cater to specific needs, enhancing players' abilities and overall performance on the baseball field.
Should I focus on quality or price?
When it comes to choosing between quality and price, it can be a challenging decision, especially considering the potential expenses associated with baseball. My suggestion is to get the glove with the best quality that you can comfortably afford. Opting for a glove with superior quality and materials often translates to increased longevity, provided you take proper care of it.
Training gloves? Are they worth the investment?
If they fit within your budget, then yes, they are indeed worthwhile. Training gloves such as smaller-than-average gloves or pancake gloves are excellent investments for advancing your skills. They provide specific benefits that can aid in your progress as a player. However, if these specialized gloves don't align with your situation or budget, there are alternative approaches to consider. You can explore creative methods like simulating the drills using your bare hands or even utilizing pot holders. The goal is to find substitutes or training techniques that consistently challenge you to improve in specific skills. Regardless of the option you choose, the key is to maintain a focus on continuous growth and development as a baseball player.
The Coach "Debunks" Myths:
To conclude this post, I'd like to debunk some of the myths surrounding gloves in general, with a specific focus on gloves for this age group.
1. It doesn't matter how I break in my glove. FALSE. The way you break in your glove is crucial. You don't want your glove to end up flat like a pancake. In an upcoming post about breaking in gloves, I will dive deeper into this topic and provide more insights.
2. I need a lot of gloves to be successful. FALSE. While having a variety of gloves can potentially enhance your game, it can also be detrimental if not managed properly. What matters more than the number of gloves you own is the maintenance of your glove. Taking good care of your glove and keeping it in optimal condition is key to success.
3. One specific glove brand reigns supreme. FALSE. If you observe professional baseball in both the majors and minors, you'll notice that players use different brands of gloves. The choice of a glove brand is a matter of personal preference and should be treated as such. What works for one player may not work for another. It's important to find a glove brand that feels comfortable and suits your needs and preferences.
By debunking these myths, we can make more informed decisions when it comes to selecting and maintaining our baseball gloves. Remember, the quality of your glove and the care you put into it ultimately contribute to your performance on the field.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at:
mk.kingofthediamond@gmail.com
