Find the Best Baseball Gloves By Position

Last Updated on June 26, 2023

As a baseball player, having the right glove for your position is essential for having a successful game. Knowing which gloves are the best for each position can help you make the right decision when searching for the perfect glove. In this article, I will discuss “What are the best baseball gloves by position”, including infielders, outfielders, catchers, and pitchers. 

I will provide information on the best glove materials, sizes, and features for each position, so you can make the most informed decision when selecting your glove. With the right glove, you’ll have the confidence to make plays on the diamond.

When I reviewed these gloves, I have focused on the quality of materials, comfortablity, brand value, and life spam of the gloves. Hope my real experience help you to choose the right glvoe for your every game. 

Before You Buy Baseball Gloves: What to Look For 

When it comes to finding the right baseball glove, there are some key considerations to keep in mind. Here are some things to look for as you search 

Glove Size

It’s critical to start with glove size. Generally speaking, shorter gloves are for infielders, and long gloves are for outfielders, with intermediate sizes for pitchers. Keeping your hand size in mind, try out different glove sizes until you find the one that fits best. 

Construction & Materials

Glove construction and materials are important factors in selecting the right glove. Look for high-quality leather with reinforced palm padding and webbing for extra durability, comfort, and performance. 

Glove Webbings

Different baseball gloves may come with different types of webbing, from H-webbing to single post webbing. Each has its own advantages, so research which type is best for your position and preferences. 

Brand & Cost

Different brands of gloves may have different construction and materials, so research different brands and ask around for recommendations. Also, leather considers which options are within your budget. 

Final Testing

Once you’ve narrowed down your selection, you should always test the glove yourself. Make sure it feels comfortable, fits your hand well, and is suited for your position.

Want to buy a Pro Glove? Let us help you without the best review of pro gloves || 44 Pro Gloves Review

Best Pitcher’S Gloves

You know the pitcher is the key player in baseball. His capacity can control a game. Though you can use any infielders or outfielders gloves for pitching in general baseball games. But professional games demand specific pitching gloves for better performance.

You need to consider the following core features while choosing the pitcher baseball gloves.

WEBBING

The speed of pitching is not the only thing that you need to focus on. You also need to focus on different tricks to pitch successfully. I always recommend my students to hide the ball before pitching so that batters can’t understand in advance what pitchers will do.

“Closed Web/Basket” webbing is the perfect choice for a pitcher’s glove. This webbing is specially designed to endure the rigorous demands of a pitcher’s glove. Closed webbing helps pitchers to hide the ball, improve grip, and increase confidence at the time of pitching.

The Hiding capability of an elite-level pitcher’s glove is simply top-notch. It allows the pitcher to conceal their pitch selection from the batter. This enhances the pitcher’s stealth, enabling them to throw any pitch from their arsenal without the batter being able to anticipate it.

Deep Pocket

This is also another key feature of pitching gloves. A deep pocket helps pitchers to conceal the ball so that batters can’t anticipate the types of pitching. A deeper pocket also prevents the ball from being slipped out.

Narrow Finger Stalls

All professional baseball pitchers use narrower finger stalls for better control over the ball and to maintain a consistent grip while pitching.

Additional Protection

It is most common for a pitcher to catch hard-hit comebackers or line drives. So, additional padding in the palm and fingers help pitchers to save his hand from injury.

Moreover, the shape and texture of the grip and ball are perfectly tailored for the pitcher’s glove, providing an optimal hold and grip over the ball.

Size

The size of the pitcher’s gloves differs based on the players. For young pitchers( 12 and under), the size ranges from 11.5” to 11.75”. And for the adult, the size ranges from 11.5” to 12”.

Gloves for Pitchers

Rawlings Heart Of The Hide

High-end gloves require patience and dedication to break in, and not everyone is willing to make the commitment. Rawlings Heart of the Hide is no exception and is not suitable for everyone.

Advantages 

• A superior combination of steer hide and cowhide leather makes this glove highly durable and long-lasting when used and cared for correctly. 
• It provides a luxurious feel and great control. 
• Additionally, the breathable fabric will help keep your hands free of sweat and discomfort.

Disadvantages 

• Expensive gloves. Perfect for those who don’t mind spending a bit more 
• Takes a lot of effort to completely break in to give the glove a customized fit

Rawlings Player Preferred

The Rawlings Player Preferred is an affordable glove for casual players who don’t want to spend a lot of money. It is not as high quality as more expensive gloves, but it is suitable for weekend warriors. Comparing it to more expensive gloves is not fair.

Advantages 

• This glove is the best value for the price in the market. 
• The leather quality is comfortable and the palm padding is sufficient to protect your hands. 
• It can be used for various different positions. 

Disadvantages 

• The leather is not as strong as higher-end models, and it may be too snug for those with larger hands.

Best Catcher’s Gloves

As a catcher, you know that having the best baseball glove is essential to making plays and catching balls. The best gloves for a catcher should provide comfort and protection. As well as easy maneuverability when scooping up balls in the dirt or quickly transferring them from glove to throwing hand. 

Here, I am going to discuss the core features of catcher’s gloves

WEBBING

When on the hunt for a great catcher’s glove, look for models with a closed or basket webbing, which allows you to hide your hand positioning and keep the ball in the glove better.

Its reinforced design helps to withstand the force of hard-thrown pitches.

THICK PADDING

Catcher’s gloves are designed with thick padding in the area of the plam, back, and fingers to absorb the impact of fastballs, foul tips, and wild pitches. These features not only reduce the risk of injuries but also improve the confidence of the catchers because he knows thick padding will protect his hand from any fast-throwing ball.

It’s also beneficial to choose a glove with extra padding, which helps absorb shock and cushion your hand when catching fastballs.

Look for gloves made of steer hide or cowhide, as they’re more durable than synthetic materials. 

Size

In terms of size, you’ll want a catcher’s glove with a larger pocket, as this will give you the most control over the ball. Generally, the size you should look for should be between 33-35 inches.

Additionally, look for gloves with deeper pockets since this will help you better control the ball when it’s thrown hard. 

FIGURE 03: Gloves for Catchers

Gloves for Catchers

Wilson A2K (Premium)

The Wilson A2K catcher’s mitt is an excellent option for those willing to spend top dollars. It’s superior to the A2000 SuperSkin in terms of performance, durability, flexibility, and convenience. It has Pro Stock Select Leather, which comes from the strongest of American steer hides, making it a top-tier mitt.

Advantages

• The cost of this mitt is very affordable compared to more expensive options 
• The padding can help to protect your hands from soreness or injury. 
• It only takes a short time to break in the mitt. 
• It can be used for both baseball and softball catching 

Disadvantages

• Synthetic leather is not as durable. 
• It is not suitable for adults to use.

Wilson A2000 SuperSkin

Rawlings Player Preferred and Heart of the Hide mitts are both highly regarded, and there is an argument that the latter can compete with Wilson’s A2K. MLB pros are divided on which is better, but both mitts have excellent leather screening processes, with only 5% of top-shelf steer hides making the grade for Heart of the Hide. The leather quality of both gloves speaks for itself.

Advantages 

• High-quality steer hides to give the glove durability 
• Padding in the palm and protection around the thumb offers a better catching experience 
• The deep pockets make the glove more comfortable to use 
• The thick and sturdy leather is still easy to break in 

Disadvantages 

• It is more costly than other options 
• The lacing may be confusing to figure out.

Do you Know How to Break in a Catcher’s Mitt? If you do not, read the following article || How to break in a catcher’s mitt

IN FIELDER

The best baseball gloves for center infielders should have an open web, a deep pocket, and a smooth, lightweight feel.

A glove with an open web (I-Web, or H-Web) allows for easy ball transfers and is great for quick reaction time. It also allows for a clearer view of the ball to ensure an accurate throw. Versatility also plays a role in selecting a glove for center infielders. 

Many gloves can be used for a variety of infield positions and will stand up against wear and tear. In terms of pocket size, center infielders should look for a glove with a deep pocket. This ensures that balls stay securely in the pocket, no matter the speed or trajectory. 

An added bonus is that deep pockets help with stability and control when throwing. Lastly, center infielders should opt for a glove with a lightweight and smooth feel.

This would allow for a more controlled fielding technique and better accuracy with throws. It also helps reduce fatigue, allowing players to put more effort and focus into the game.

 

Gloves for Infielders

Rawlings Pro Preferred Baseball Glove Series

The Rawlings Pro Preferred is an expensive baseball glove, comparable to the Wilson A2K, All-Star Pro-Elite, and Nokona X2 Elite. Alternatively, the Rawlings Heart of the Hide, Wilson A2000, and Mizuno Pro are excellent choices for those with a lower budget.

The Pro Preferred is a professional infield glove of unparalleled quality, made from kip leather. It is favored by MLB players and is expensive due to its materials.

Advantages

• Kip leather gloves are incredibly soft, strong, and sleek – a great all-around choice. 
• The lacing is durable and won’t fray after long use. 
• The palm lining minimizes heat and sweat accumulation. 
• Thanks to the wool padding, the glove can retain its shape. 

Disadvantages

• It requires much work and preparation to get it to its full potential. 
• Additionally, it is costly compared to other infield gloves.

Mizuno Pro Select GPS1-600S – Infield Model

Mizuno Pro Select is an excellent mid-tier glove that offers quality and a decent price point. It is made with US steer hide which is a durable and high-performance material.

There is a shallow pocket and regular pocket version available, so you can choose which one you prefer. It has been tested and is able to withstand rigorous use.

Advantages

• This glove offers an excellent combination of price and quality. 
• Its US steer hide leather ensures durability and can last through multiple seasons. 
• It features two pocket depths to choose from and a palm liner that provides improved control and ease of movement. 

Disadvantages

• The glove does not come pre-broken in, so it will require a substantial amount of time to get it ready for use. 
• Additionally, the shallow pocket option may not be appropriate for those new to the game.

To know more about Infielder’s Baseball gloves read the following article || Best Infielder Gloves 2022

OUTFIELDERS

The H-Web or T-web from Trapeze is perfect for an outfielder’s glove thanks to its unique construction.

The web’s wide surface area gives players an increased range for catching fly balls, while its deep pocket ensures security for all sizes of balls. The web is also made entirely with leather, providing durability for seasons of usage and making it extremely comfortable for the player. 

Additionally, the T-web has resilient lacing which provides a long-lasting, solid retention that keeps the glove in prime shape for many games to come.

As an outfielder, it’s crucial to have a quality baseball glove that offers great protection, comfort, and durability. Finding the right glove can be quite challenging, so we’ve compiled a list of the best baseball gloves for outfielders that’ll help you get the job done. 

FIGURE 05: Gloves for Outfielders

Rawlings Heart Of The Hide Baseball Glove Series

The Rawlings Heart of the Hide is an MLB outfield glove made with 5% of the most premium steer hides. It is preferred by pros over the Wilson A2000 and has a cowhide palm lining for extra comfort. It is considered the best glove for outfielders and has a 60% factory break-in to make it easier to use.

Advantages 

• This glove is constructed with superior steer hide leather that ensures durability. 
• The thumb and palm sections are designed differently to provide optimal comfort. 
• The laces are robust and can endure extensive use. 
• It is also easy to close the glove making it ideal for running and fielding fly balls. 

Disadvantages 

• The glove is quite expensive. 
• It may require extra effort to break in.

Wilson A2000 Baseball Glove SuperSkin

Wilson gloves are a popular choice among baseball players due to their quality and durability. The Wilson A2000 12.75 outfielder’s glove is equipped with a dual-post H-web, Pro Stock leather, SuperSkin material, Drilex wrist lining, and flat finger binding. It provides players with maximum vision and stability to catch fly balls, as well as movement, durability, and protection from heat and sweat.

Advantages

• The lightweight construction of the gloves facilitates quick movement in the field. 
• They come in various sizes and are made of premium steer hide leather, making them durable and long-lasting. 
• Additionally, the Drilex lining helps keep hands cool and dry. 

Disadvantages

• The cost may not be suitable for those on a budget, and it may take some time to break in the glove

Lets know the best Outfielder Gloves offered by Wilson || Top Outfielder’s Gloves of Wilson

Leather, Synthetic, or Hybrid

Baseball gloves are essential for any player looking to maximize their performance on the field. The right glove material can help improve grip, protect the hand, and reduce fatigue. As such, it is important to invest in a glove made of quality materials that can stand up to the demands of the game. 

Leather is the go-to material for most baseball gloves due to its durability, grip, and comfort. It is one of the most popular materials used by professional and amateur players alike. Leather gloves come in a variety of types, including cowhide, pigskin, and buffalo hide. Depending on the type of leather, the glove can be soft and supple, or more durable and stiff. 

Synthetic materials such as vinyl and polyurethane are also popular choices. These materials are often lighter and more affordable than leather, but they may not be as durable or provide the same level of grip. Finally, some players opt for a hybrid material, which combines the durability of leather with the lightweight feel of synthetic material. 

Synthetic materials such as nylon have become increasingly popular in recent years. Because they are more affordable than leather, they are a great option for recreational players who are looking for top performance without breaking the bank. Synthetic models often come with advanced features that add comfort and breathability. Additionally, synthetic materials are much easier to break in than leather gloves.

Hybrid gloves are becoming increasingly popular and are often used by professional players. 

CONCLUSION

When choosing the best baseball gloves by position, look for ones that feature quality leather, positional-specific taping. And a well-constructed pocket to protect the hand and provide better control of the ball. In addition, finding the right combination of comfort and performance can help a pitcher improve their effectiveness on the mound. 

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