Spring Baseball Season Kicks Off! The Complete Guide to Choosing a Glove by Position
The spring baseball season is finally underway. Many of you are likely thinking about getting a new glove as you join a new team or simply want a fresh start. A glove's shape, size, and web type differ significantly depending on the position. In this article, we will provide an in-depth guide on how to choose a glove based on your position.
Why do gloves differ by position?
Because the actions required for baseball vary by position, the shape, size, and material of the gloves are optimized accordingly. Pitchers need to conceal their pitches, infielders need quick throwing actions, and outfielders need reliable catching within a wide defensive range. Choosing the right glove can significantly improve the quality of your play, so it is important to know which model is right for your position.
How to choose a pitcher's glove
Choose a closed (solid) web type
The most important feature of a pitcher's glove is that it has a closed web so that the pitcher's grip and pitch type are not visible to the batter. If a batter can read your pitch through the gaps in the web, it gives them an advantage, so choose a design that is fully closed. Turn-back and basket-style webs are also popular for pitchers.
11.5 to 12 inches is the standard size
Generally, 11.5 to 12 inches is the standard size for pitchers. If it is too large, it becomes difficult to maneuver, so choosing a size that fits your hand is important. Select a size that allows you to maintain a smooth pitching motion without feeling constricted.
Selecting materials for the Hokkaido climate
In Hokkaido, early spring can still be quite cold, making leather prone to stiffening. Choosing a glove made of steerhide or other natural leather that is relatively soft and easy to break in will make it easier to use in cold conditions.
→ Click here for our pitcher's glove lineup
How to choose an infielder's glove
A "shallow" pocket for quick throws
Infielders such as shortstops, third basemen, and second basemen need to catch and throw quickly. These gloves typically have a shallow pocket and a compact size (11 to 11.5 inches). A shallow pocket allows the player to quickly transition the ball to their throwing hand, which is ideal for infield play where split-second decisions determine the outcome.
Playstyles change with the web
The following two web types are popular for infielders:
- H-Web: High flexibility, allowing for quick ball handling. Ideal for shortstops and second basemen.
- Cross Web: Stable, making it ideal for third basemen and first basemen.
Size guide by position
| Position | Size Guide |
|---|---|
| Shortstop | 11–11.5 inches |
| Second Base | 11–11.5 inches |
| Third Base | Around 11.5 inches |
| First Base | First Base Mitt (12–13 inches) |
→ Click here for our infielder's glove lineup
How to choose an outfielder's glove
Increase your defensive range with a larger size
Outfielders require a wide defensive range and reliable catching ability. Outfielder gloves are typically larger, ranging from 12 to 12.5 inches. They feature deep pockets and longer fingers, designed to make it easier to handle fly balls and low line drives.
T-Web and I-Web types are popular
Outfielders often have to track fly balls while facing sunlight. T-Webs and I-Webs are favored by outfielders because they make it easier to see through the web to track the ball, aiding in fly ball play.
→ Click here for our outfielder's glove lineup
Glove break-in is part of your spring preparation
New gloves are stiff right after purchase, making it difficult to use them in a game immediately. At GLOVE HOUSE, we offer a glove break-in service, where our expert staff will shape your glove into the optimal form for your playstyle. It is best to request this service early so it is ready for the start of the spring season.
→ Click here for glove repair and break-in services
Summary: Points for choosing a glove by position
To get off to the best start for the spring baseball season, choosing a glove that matches your position is essential.
- Pitcher: Closed web, 11.5–12 inches, design that hides the ball.
- Infielder: Shallow pocket, 11–11.5 inches, designed for quick throwing.
- Outfielder: Deep pocket, 12–12.5 inches, T-web or I-web.
At GLOVE HOUSE, we offer a wide selection and expert staff to provide personalized advice, helping you find the perfect glove. From selecting materials that can handle the Hokkaido cold to professional break-in services, we provide total support. Be sure to check out our online shop!