Glove Recommendations
Most players have their own style and a certain look they like to take on the field with them. However, whatever the style, each position carries certain glove characteristics and specifications that are essential to maximize a players success. Keep in mind that gloves come in youth and adult sizes. My suggestion would be to buy your play a youth glove until he turns 11 or 12. Once he begins to get older you can look at investing more money in a glove that is going last him through high school.
Middle Infielders:
Being a middle infielder by trade, I have particular insight for players in the middle of the diamond. The main purpose for having a smaller mitt in the middle is for quick transitions. The longer we take to get the ball from the mitt to our throwing hand, the more steps the runner is taking towards the next bag. Unless we are fielding a forehand or a backhand, we live in the palm of the glove. Shortstops, nothing bigger than 1 1/2” and Second Basemen, nothing bigger than11 1/4”. Shortstops typically have a few more responsibilities, which is the reason for the extra length. I personally preferred the A3K from Wilson at 11 1/4 “ length.
Third Base:
The “Hot Corner” gives players reason to have a little extra length on their mitt. Quick transitions become less of factor at third so you can afford a little extra on the webbing. I found that 11 1/2” to 11 ¾” works just about perfect for most players.
First Base:
First base is one of those unique positions that no one really talks about the glove. Most coaches will tell you to grab a first baseman’s and go play the position. My suggestion is to have your player play with a first baseman’s glove as big as your player can handle. As long as your player isn’t fumbling around every other play and the glove isn’t too heavy for your player then they will have success. Most first base mitts will range from 12” to 13”.
Outfield:
I take the same stance for outfielder’s gloves as I do first base gloves. Have your player play with a glove that is as big as he can handle. As long as the player can maneuver the glove comfortably then your player will have success. Most outfielders above the little league level will play with a 12.75” glove.
Pitchers:
Given that pitcher's are called on to start double plays and make quick transitions when fielding their position, I suggest players limit their glove size to a maximum of 12". Anything larger than 12" becomes too large to manage and becomes a strain on the lead arm when delivering the ball to the plate. As your player gets older pitchers glove tend to follow the same guidelines as infielders gloves. Whatever the size, be sure the glove has a closed web. You don't want to leave any openings for the hitter to pick up your grip on the ball.
Catcher:
Catcher’s gloves are all personal preference. My only recommendation is not to go overboard on the size. Your player will want a glove that he can easily manage and isn’t to heavy for him to mane uver around. Catchers have to make a lot of adjustments to the location of the pitch and the last thing your player is going to want to do is drag a heavy glove around.