GLOVES

Each position uses a specific glove.  however for the 12 and under age groups the players really only need one glove to play all positions with the exception of the catcher position. and potentially the 1st base position  

Gloves are an important investment as they are critical in allowing the player to play at their highest potential.
Good quality gloves are expensive but if treated properly they can last a long time. If the player is 13 and older it is recommended to purchase a good-quality glove as it should easily last throughout their high school career.

Pitchers need a glove that has an enclosed web design to hide the ball and pitcher's hand from the batter.  The size varies depending on the pitchers height and strength and size can range from 10.75” - 12.5” for 10 - 12 year olds, and 11.5” - 12.5” for 13 - 18 year-olds.

Catchers need a catcher's glove and catcher's gear.  Glove sizes range from 31" to 34" depending on the age and size of the catcher.  Typically 13 and under are recommended to wear 30" - 32" gloves while players 14 - 18U players typically use 32" - 33.5" gloves.  16 and up players that are taller and stronger sometimes prefer a 34" - 34..5" glove.

Catchers' gear is all about safety with the importance of comfort and fit.  It is recommended to purchase a hockey-style helmet as it is required for high school.  Tournaments allow catchers to wear catchers skull helmets and face masks but we recommend the hockey-style helmet for all of the catchers especially those 14 and under.

All high school level baseball players will be required to wear a chest protector that is NOCSAE certified for protection against Commotio Cordis. Every catcher’s chest protector made prior to 2019 does not have the certification.  All NOCSAE-certified chest protectors will have a stamp that shows it is certified by SEI and NOCSAE for protection against Commotio Cordis.  Younger age divisions do not need the certification..

Thumb guards are recommended for the 13U - 18U players to protect the catcher's thumb from being bruised, sprained, or broken when catching.

1st Baseman uses a specific glove for the 1st base position.  The first basemen's glove is longer and has a solid, curved edge to the design making it easier for the player to scoop throws in the dirt and stop ground balls down the line. The larger surface of the glove creates an easier and larger target to hit for infielders..  9 - 12-year old players can typically use a 10.5" - 12" glove and 13 and older can use a 12" - 13" depending on the height and strength of the player.

Middle Infielders (2nd and Shortstop) use smaller gloves to allow for faster transfer of the ball to make quick throws to the bases.  Middle infielders 9 - 12 and under can use a 10" - 11" glove and 13 and older can use a 10.5" - 12" depending on the height and strength of the player.  Infielders need great glove control so the player needs a glove that is easily handled and controlled 

3rd Baseman uses a slightly larger glove than the middle infielders as the added reach helps to stop hard-hit balls down the line. 9 - 12 and under can use a 10.5" - 11.5" glove and 13 and older can use an 11.25" - 11.75" depending on the height and strength of the player.

Outfielders use larger gloves with deeper pockets to help secure the ball and gain reach. Typically they have H or trapeze web for better visibility to catch fly balls.  Outfielder glove size ranges from 10.75” - 12” for ages 9 - 12 players, and 12" - 12.75" for 13 -18 year old players but it does depend on the height and size of the player. The player should catch the ball without having trouble keeping the glove on or having it flop around when catching the ball.


SHOES

Players need a pair of baseball plastic molded cleats preferably in either navy blue, black, or white.   A pair of turf shoes/regular athletic shoes are also needed for all indoor practices.  Cleats are not allowed inside the facilities. High school-age players 15 and up should also have a set of metal cleats especially pitchers for games played on natural fields and dirt mounds.


BATTERS GLOVES

Batters Gloves are needed to provide a better grip on the bat and provide hand protection from blisters.  The batters glove should fit tight and snug on both hands.  There are a wide variety of batters gloves available at a wide variety of prices.  Usually the more expensive the higher quality and longer lasting. 


BATTERS HELMET

Batters' helmets should be comfortable but fit snug with little to no movement when the batter shakes their head.  A jaw protector can also be attached to the helmet for added protection.


For more information or to answer any additional questions please contact our player's office.