Top 5 Infielder Baseball Gloves: Reviews and Buying Guide

Ever watched a slick double play and thought, “Wow, that infielder’s glove is amazing!”? It’s true! A good baseball glove can be the difference between making an incredible play and watching the ball roll right past you. But picking the perfect glove, especially for an infielder, can feel like being lost in a maze. There are so many different brands, sizes, and web styles! It’s easy to get overwhelmed.

Choosing the wrong glove can be frustrating. You might miss ground balls, struggle to get the ball out quickly, or end up with a glove that’s just plain uncomfortable. You want a glove that helps you play your best, not hinders you. This is especially true for infielders who need a glove that is quick and versatile.

In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about infielder baseball gloves. We’ll cover the key features, different web styles, and how to find the perfect fit for your hand and playing style. By the end, you’ll be ready to confidently select a glove that will have you making highlight-reel plays in no time. Let’s dive in and find your perfect glove!

Our Top 5 Infielder Baseball Glove Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Infielder Baseball Glove Detailed Reviews

1. Rawlings

Rawlings | PLAYER PREFERRED Glove | Baseball/Softball | Right Hand Throw | 12.5" - Basket Web

Rating: 8.8/10

The Rawlings PLAYER PREFERRED Glove is a great choice for baseball and slowpitch softball players. This glove is designed for adults. It has a 12.5-inch size and a basket web. This versatile glove can be used at any position on the field. It is made with full-grain leather and has zero shock palm padding. This helps protect your hand when catching the ball. The glove also has an adjustable wrist strap. This lets you make the glove fit just right. You can get a game-ready feel with an easy break-in process.

What We Like:

  • The 12.5-inch size is great for adults.
  • The basket web allows you to play any position.
  • Full-grain leather makes the glove last.
  • The zero shock palm padding protects your hand.
  • You can adjust the wrist strap for a perfect fit.
  • The glove is ready to play quickly.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The description does not provide any cons.

This Rawlings glove is a solid option for players. It is built for comfort and performance. It is a good choice for recreational players.

2. Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove – Fieldmaster Adult + Youth Baseball Gloves – Men’s + Women’s Infield + Outfield Mitt – Right Hand Throw – 12″

Rating: 8.6/10

Get ready to play ball with the Franklin Sports Fieldmaster Baseball and Softball Glove! This glove is designed for both adults and youth. It’s built for infield and outfield play. The glove is made for right-hand throwers. It’s made of synthetic leather and is ready to go quickly. The Fieldmaster glove helps players of all levels make plays.

What We Like:

  • Easy Break-In: The soft material makes the glove ready to use fast. You don’t need to wait long to play!
  • Contour Fit System: You can adjust the thumb area for a perfect fit. This helps with comfort.
  • Durable Construction: The glove is made of tough synthetic leather. It lasts a long time.
  • Hand-Formed Pocket: The pocket is comfortable and helps you catch the ball easily.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The synthetic leather, while durable, may not offer the same feel as a traditional leather glove.
  • The glove’s overall design may not be suitable for advanced players or those seeking professional-grade performance.

The Franklin Sports Fieldmaster glove is a great choice for players of all levels. It is a good glove that is easy to use.

3. Rawlings

Rawlings | SANDLOT Baseball Glove | Right Hand Throw | 11.75" - Modified Trap-Eze Web

Rating: 8.7/10

The Rawlings SANDLOT baseball glove is ready for the baseball field. This glove is for right-handed throwers. It measures 11.75 inches and has a Modified Trap-Eze web. This design makes it great for different positions. The glove is made with full-grain oiled shell leather. This helps it last longer. It also has features for comfort and protection. The glove comes mostly broken-in from the factory, so it is ready to play quickly.

What We Like:

  • The 11.75″ size is useful.
  • The Modified Trap-Eze Web helps catch balls at multiple positions.
  • Full-grain oiled shell leather makes the glove durable.
  • Zero Shock palm pads give extra protection.
  • Padded finger back linings provide comfort.
  • The glove is mostly broken-in, so you can play right away.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The glove is only for right-handed throwers.
  • The price could be an issue for some.

This Rawlings Sandlot glove is a good choice for baseball players. It is durable and comfortable. It is a good glove for anyone who needs it.

4. Mizuno GMVP1177P4 MVP Prime BB

Mizuno GMVP1177P4 MVP Prime BB | Infielder Baseball Glove | 11.75" | Center Pocket Design | Deep 3 Web

Rating: 9.4/10

The Mizuno GMVP1177P4 MVP Prime BB is a baseball glove for infielders. This glove is 11.75 inches long. It has a center pocket design and a deep 3 web. It is made for serious players. The glove is made to feel good in your hand and help you play well. This glove will help you on the field.

What We Like:

  • The Bio Soft Leather feels great. It has a perfect balance of oil and softness. You can feel the ball well.
  • The glove uses professional level laces. They are strong and will last.
  • The logo looks rich and premium. It is outlined and embroidered.
  • The center pocket design is great. It centers the pocket under your index finger.
  • The PlusGrip Thumb is very comfortable. It has a padded thumb slot.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Some players might want a different web style.
  • The glove might take a little time to break in.

This Mizuno glove is a solid choice for infielders. It has good features and quality materials. You will likely enjoy using this glove on the field.

5. Rawlings

Rawlings | SELECT PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove | Right Hand Throw | Kris Bryant | 11.5"

Rating: 8.6/10

The Rawlings SELECT PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove is built for young baseball players. It’s designed for kids aged 6-12. This glove is a Kris Bryant model and is 11.5 inches. It features a Pro H Web that works well in many positions. It’s made with an all-leather shell. The soft leather and palm lining feel good and help reduce shock. This makes it a safe choice for young players. It’s also a lightweight design, making it easy to close and control. The glove comes 90% broken in from the factory, with the remaining 10% needing to be done by the player. This glove is for right-hand throwers.

What We Like:

  • This glove is perfect for young players.
  • The all-leather shell feels comfortable.
  • It has a lightweight design.
  • The glove is easy for kids to close and control.
  • The Kris Bryant model gives young players a cool glove.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Some players may prefer a fully broken-in glove.

This Rawlings youth glove is a great pick for young baseball players. It offers comfort, safety, and a cool design. It is a great way to help your child learn the game.

The Ultimate Guide to Buying an Infielder’s Baseball Glove

Choosing the right infielder’s glove is a big deal. It helps you play better and have more fun. This guide will help you pick the perfect glove.

1. Key Features to Look For

You need a glove that fits well and helps you make plays. Here are some important features:

  • Webbing: Look at the webbing. It’s the part between the thumb and the fingers.
    • Closed Web: These webs hide the ball better. They’re great for infielders.
    • Open Web: These webs are lighter and help you see the ball better.
  • Pocket: The pocket is where you catch the ball. It should be deep enough to hold the ball securely.
  • Size: Infield gloves are usually smaller than outfield gloves. They help you get the ball out of the glove faster. Infield gloves typically range from 11.5 to 12 inches.
  • Fit: The glove should fit your hand comfortably. It shouldn’t be too tight or too loose.
2. Important Materials

The materials of your glove matter a lot. They affect how long your glove lasts and how well it performs.

  • Leather: Leather is the most common material. It’s strong and durable.
    • Full-grain leather: This is the highest quality leather. It’s soft and breaks in quickly.
    • Top-grain leather: This is also good quality leather. It’s durable but might take longer to break in.
    • Split leather: This leather is less expensive but might not last as long.
  • Synthetic Materials: Some gloves use synthetic materials. These gloves are usually cheaper. They might not feel as good as leather.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality makes a big difference. Here’s what to look for:

  • Stitching: Look at the stitching. It should be tight and even. Good stitching means the glove will last longer.
  • Leather Quality: Higher-quality leather makes a better glove. The leather should be soft and feel good.
  • Break-In: How easy it is to break in the glove matters. A glove that breaks in quickly is easier to use. Gloves made with better quality leather usually break in easier.
  • Price: Usually, higher-priced gloves use better materials. They also have better craftsmanship.
4. User Experience and Use Cases

An infielder’s glove is used in many ways. You use it to catch ground balls, line drives, and throws.

  • Ground Balls: The glove should help you scoop up ground balls cleanly.
  • Quick Transfers: You need to get the ball out of your glove quickly to throw to first base.
  • Comfort: You’ll be wearing the glove for a long time. Make sure it’s comfortable.
  • Positions: Infielders at all positions use this type of glove. This includes shortstops, second basemen, and third basemen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What size glove should I get?

A: Most infielders use gloves that are 11.5 to 12 inches. Check with your coach for recommendations.

Q: What’s the difference between a closed and open web?

A: Closed webs hide the ball. Open webs help you see the ball better.

Q: How do I break in my glove?

A: You can use glove oil or play catch with it a lot. Some people use a mallet to shape the glove.

Q: What’s the best material for a glove?

A: Full-grain leather is often considered the best, but it is also the most expensive. Top-grain leather is a good alternative.

Q: How do I take care of my glove?

A: Clean it with a leather cleaner. Condition it with glove oil. Store it in a cool, dry place.

Q: How long should an infielder’s glove last?

A: A good quality leather glove can last for several seasons if you take care of it.

Q: Should I get a new or used glove?

A: Either is okay. New gloves need to be broken in. Used gloves might already be broken in.

Q: Can I use an outfielder’s glove at the infield?

A: No, it’s usually too big and makes transfers slower.

Q: What’s the best way to store my glove?

A: Keep it in a cool, dry place, preferably inside a glove bag or with a ball in the pocket.

Q: Where can I buy an infielder’s glove?

A: You can buy them at sporting goods stores or online retailers.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

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