Quick Tips On How To Play Baseball

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Baseball, often referred to as America’s favorite pastime, is a thrilling sport that captivates players and spectators alike. It’s easy to understand why so many people love the game. All you need to get started is a bat, a ball, and a glove. Find a few friends and an empty field to get a game going. Of course, actually, playing the game is a lot more complicated than that.

There’s a lot of strategy and rules at play every time you step onto that beautiful red shale. Of course, one article can’t cover all of the finer details of how to play baseball.

However, learning how to hit a ball and throw a ball is a pretty good place to start if you’re interested in playing the game.

Whether you’re a complete novice or have some prior experience, mastering the fundamentals is crucial to enjoying the game. From hitting powerful home runs to making precise throws and acrobatic catches, baseball offers endless excitement and skill development opportunities. This article presents a collection of quick tips to help you kickstart your baseball journey or refine your existing skills. So grab your glove, step up to the plate, and explore the key techniques and strategies that will elevate your game.

Swing for the Fences: How to Hit a Baseball

There’s a lot of practice involved in learning how to hit a ball and being able to hit a ball like rookie superstar Aaron Judge. With that said, it doesn’t matter if you’re Aaron Judge playing in the big leagues or just another average Joe playing at the local ball diamond; the fundamentals of hitting a baseball are universal.

The first thing to do is learn how to grip the bat. A baseball grip is rather simple, with both hands clutching the bat, one above the other. Many people will naturally rest the bat in their palms with their fingers wrapping around it. However, a much more effective grip has your fingers taking on much of the bat’s weight. You don’t want to grip too hard or too soft, as this can affect your control of the bat when swinging.

a baseball player swinging his baseball bat to hit the incoming ball

Now it’s time to line up at home plate and prepare for the pitch. You want to face your hips, chest, and shoulders square with a home plate and turn your head to watch the pitcher and anticipate the ball’s arrival at home plate.

Angling your body can help affect the ball’s direction when you make contact. If you are a right-handed batter, close your hips from the infield to help drive the ball to the right. If you want to send the ball out to the left, you would open your hips to the infield. Of course, the opposite would be true for a left-handed batter.

Now, it’s time to hit the ball. This is much easier said than done, and, needless to say, there will be a lot of practice involved before you feel comfortable every time you step up to the plate. If you have heard the phrase, “Keep your eye on the ball,” then you know one of the most important baseball tips.

You will have to anticipate the speed and angle of the ball to know when and where to swing. Of course, if the ball is way outside the strike zone, then not swinging at all is typically the best strategy. If you want to send the ball into the outfield, you will want to hit the ball on your upswing, whereas a flat swing plane will create a ground ball situation.

Put Some Heat On It: How to Throw

Throwing a ball with power and accuracy is another skill that looks much easier than it really is. Making a short throw is achievable for most players, but gunning out a runner at first base from your position at third is a tall task.

Use a full circular throwing motion to generate power with your arm. You will even want to incorporate your torso by turning as you release the ball for more power. Another good tip to keep in mind is to use your wrist.

a man posing with his left leg raised and is about to throw the baseball

As you release the ball, a wrist flick can add much power and help maintain accuracy. Practicing throwing with just your wrist and no arm motion is one great way to get a feel for the wrist motion you should be using.

Much like with batting, grip is very important when throwing. Hold the ball in your fingers rather than the palm of your hand. This creates less resistance as you release the ball and makes release easier. Gripping too hard can reduce the power of your throw. Imagine you are gripping an egg and want to throw it without breaking it.

No Substitute for Practice

pitching baseball hard

Quite simply, it is impossible to learn how to hit and throw a baseball without putting in practice time. Learn the fundamentals and then develop your style around those fundamentals. If you are struggling to hit a baseball, experiment with various stances in the batter’s box. You can also try adjusting your grip position on the bat or angling your body a certain way as you prepare for the pitch.

With these quick tips, you’re well on your way to becoming a proficient baseball player. Remember, mastering the fundamentals is key to unlocking your full potential on the field. Practice regularly, hone your skills, and always strive to improve. Whether it’s perfecting your swing, sharpening your throwing accuracy, or enhancing your fielding abilities, dedication and perseverance will take you far. Embrace the camaraderie and teamwork that baseball fosters, and don’t forget to enjoy the game. Baseball is a sport that rewards passion, discipline, and a love for the game. So grab your bat, lace up your cleats, and get ready to experience the thrill of baseball like never before. Play hard, play smart, and let the joy of the game fuel your journey to success on the diamond.

Featured Image via Pixabay

 

The 7 Most Important Baseball Pitches

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13.96 Million: Number of people who play baseball in the United States – twice the population of Paraguay. Making it the 3rd most popular sport in America.

Before the Pitch

All great baseball pitches stem from a great wind-up technique. Perfect your wind-up to improve your pitch.

The Perfect Wind-Up

wind up steps

Start facing the batter with your feet on the rubber, pointing towards the home plate.

To begin the pitch, step back with your left foot, and turn 90 degrees with your left shoulder pointing toward home plate.

Lift your left leg as you turn, bending at the knee.

Pitch while making a long stride toward home plate with your left foot, keeping it in line with your right leg.

The 7 Baseball Pitches Every Pitcher Should Master

Baseball pitches are usually the focal point of every baseball match. A good baseball pitcher is the hero of the game.

The Four-Seam Fastball

The Four-Seam Fastball

four seam fastball

Facts:

1st pitch learned -usually.

Fast and easy to place.

How to Grip:

  1. Hold the baseball with your dominant hand, placing your index and middle fingers perpendicular to the seams.
  2. Position your fingers so that the seam runs directly across the top of each finger, forming a straight line across the center of the ball.
  3. Place your thumb underneath the ball, opposite your fingers.
  4. Make sure to grip the ball not too tightly. A tight grip can cause the ball to come out of your hand improperly and reduce your velocity.
  5. Ideally, the ball should rest on your fingertips rather than your palm or the pads of your fingers to help ensure that you’re getting a clean release when you throw.

How to Pitch:

  1. Start in your windup or set position on the pitching rubber.
  2. Grip the ball with your index and middle fingers across the seams and your thumb underneath the ball.
  3. Bring your throwing arm back behind your body, keeping your elbow at or above shoulder level.
  4. As you begin your forward motion, rotate your shoulders and hips toward the plate, keeping your front foot pointed toward your target.
  5. As your arm approaches, release the ball with a flick of your wrist, aiming for your desired location.
  6. Focus on keeping your wrist stiff and your fingers behind the ball at the release point to create a backspin and maximize velocity.
  7. Follow through with your pitching motion, allowing your throwing arm to extend fully and your back foot to pivot toward your target.

The Two-Seam Fastball

two seam fastball

Facts:

Also called the “sinker.”

Fast and easy to place.

How to Grip:

  1. Hold the baseball with your dominant hand, placing your index and middle fingers across the seams.
  2. Position your fingers so that they are just inside the seams, with one finger on each seam.
  3. The two fingers should be touching, or almost touching, each other on the inside of the ball.
  4. Place your thumb underneath the ball, opposite your fingers.
  5. The orientation of the ball in your hand should be such that the seams are running in a diagonal line across your fingers rather than perpendicular as they do for a four-seam fastball.
  6. Make sure to grip the ball firmly but not too tightly, as a tight grip can cause the ball to come out of your hand improperly and reduce your velocity.

How to Pitch:

  1. Start in your windup or set position on the pitching rubber.
  2. Grip the ball with your index and middle fingers inside the seams and your thumb underneath the ball.
  3. Bring your throwing arm back behind your body, keeping your elbow at or above shoulder level.
  4. As you begin your forward motion, rotate your shoulders and hips toward the plate, keeping your front foot pointed toward your target.
  5. As your arm approaches, release the ball with a flick of your wrist, aiming for your desired location.
  6. Focus on keeping your fingers behind the ball at the point of release to create side spin and movement on the pitch.
  7. The two-seam fastball is typically thrown with a slightly lower velocity than a four-seam fastball but can be equally effective in inducing ground balls and weak contact from batters.

The Slider

the slider

Facts:

Also called a “yakker” or “snapper”.

How to Grip:

  1. Hold the baseball with your dominant hand, placing your fingers on top of the seams.
  2. Position your index and middle fingers close together, slightly to one side of the ball, and grip the ball firmly but not too tightly.
  3. Tilt your wrist slightly so the fingers are coming off the side of the ball rather than straight down.
  4. Place your thumb underneath the ball, opposite your fingers.
  5. The orientation of the ball in your hand should be such that the seams run from your index finger to your middle finger, forming a horseshoe shape.
  6. To throw a slider, focus on throwing the ball with a similar motion as a fastball but with a tighter, more compact arm action and a later release point.

How to Pitch:

  1. Start in your windup or set position on the pitching rubber.
  2. Grip the ball with your index and middle fingers slightly to one side of the ball, forming a horseshoe shape with the seams and your thumb underneath the ball.
  3. Bring your throwing arm back behind your body, keeping your elbow at or above shoulder level.
  4. As you begin your forward motion, rotate your shoulders and hips toward the plate, keeping your front foot pointed toward your target.
  5. As your arm comes forward, release the ball with a flick of your wrist, aiming for your desired location.
  6. Focus on throwing the pitch with a compact arm action and a later release point, which will help create the pitch’s signature downward, sweeping movement.
  7. Keep your wrist firm and your fingers behind the ball at the release point to generate the necessary spin and movement.

The Curve Ball

Curveball grip

Facts:

Uses optical illusion to confuse the batter.

How to Grip:

  1. Hold the baseball with your dominant hand, placing your fingers across the top of the seams.
  2. Position your middle finger on top of the ball directly on the top seam.
  3. Place your index finger next to your middle finger, with both fingers touching.
  4. Create a slight space or “V” shape between your thumb and index finger.
  5. Tuck your thumb underneath the ball.
  6. The orientation of the ball in your hand should be such that the seams are running from your index finger to your middle finger, forming a downward curve shape.
  7. Grip the ball firmly but not too tightly, allowing maximum spin and movement on the pitch.

How to Pitch:

  1. Start in your windup or set position on the pitching rubber.
  2. Grip the ball with your middle and index fingers on top of the seams, forming a downward curve shape, and your thumb underneath the ball.
  3. Bring your throwing arm back behind your body, keeping your elbow at or above shoulder level.
  4. As you begin your forward motion, rotate your shoulders and hips toward the plate, keeping your front foot pointed toward your target.
  5. As your arm comes forward, snap your wrist and release the ball with a flick of your fingers, aiming for your desired location.
  6. Focus on snapping your wrist down and forward at the release point, creating the necessary spin and movement for the curveball to break sharply downward.
  7. The key to throwing an effective curveball is maintaining the same arm speed and motion as a fastball while also applying a significant amount of spin to the ball.

The Circle Change-Up

circle change up

Facts:

A slow pitch is often used to confuse the batter.

How to Grip:

  1. Hold the baseball with your dominant hand, placing your fingers across the seams.
  2. Use your thumb and index finger to create a circle or “OK” sign with your hand.
  3. Place your middle finger across the seams, directly underneath the baseball.
  4. Position the circle on the inside of the ball, with your middle finger and thumb forming the bottom of the circle.
  5. Grip the ball firmly but not too tightly, allowing for maximum spin and movement on the pitch.

How to Pitch: 

  1. Start in your windup or set position on the pitching rubber.
  2. Grip the ball with your circle changeup grip, with your index and middle fingers forming a circle on one side of the ball and your thumb on the other side.
  3. Bring your throwing arm back behind your body, keeping your elbow at or above shoulder level.
  4. As you begin your forward motion, rotate your shoulders and hips toward the plate, keeping your front foot pointed toward your target.
  5. As your arm comes forward, release the ball with a throwing motion similar to your fastball but with a slightly slower arm speed and a looser grip on the ball.
  6. Focus on maintaining the same arm speed and motion as a fastball while also using the grip to generate downward movement and deception on the pitch.
  7. The key to throwing an effective circle changeup is to maintain a consistent grip and release point while varying the speed and location of your pitches to keep batters off-balance.

The Knuckle Ball

knuckle ball

Facts:

One of the hardest baseball pitches to throw.

Also, one of the hardest pitches to hit.

How to Grip:

  1. Hold the baseball with your dominant hand and your fingertips firmly against the seams.
  2. Spread your fingertips apart so that the tips of your index and middle fingers touch the horseshoe shape at the top of the seams, and your ring and pinky fingers touch the bottom of the seams.
  3. Tuck your thumb underneath the ball to rest against your bottom fingertips.
  4. Create a loose, comfortable grip on the ball, with your fingertips barely touching the seams.
  5. The orientation of the ball should be such that the seams run from your fingertips to your palm. This forms a slight diagonal pattern.
  6. Focus on maintaining a loose grip and avoiding any spin or rotation on the ball as you release it, as the lack of spin is what gives the knuckleball its unpredictable movement.

How to Pitch:

  1. Start in your windup position on the pitching rubber.
  2. Grip the ball with your knuckleball grip, with your fingertips pressed against the seams and your thumb tucked underneath the ball.
  3. Bring your throwing arm back behind your body, keeping your elbow at or above shoulder level.
  4. Keep your wrist and fingers stiff and locked in place as you begin your forward motion, with only your arm and shoulder providing the motion.
  5. As your arm comes forward, release the ball with a pushing motion, focusing on maintaining a loose grip and minimizing any spin or rotation on the ball.
  6. Maintain a consistent release point and minimize any spin or rotation on the ball, as this is what creates the knuckleball’s unpredictable and erratic movement.
  7. Practicing your grip, release, and delivery is the key to throwing an effective knuckleball.

The Splitter Fastball

splitter fastball

Facts:

Despite being called a fastball, the splitter is often used one of the off-speed baseball pitches

How To Grip:

  1. Hold the baseball with your dominant hand using a standard four-seam fastball grip, with your fingers resting on the seams.
  2. Move your index and middle fingers closer together so that they are touching the inside seam of the baseball. Spread them apart slightly so that they form a “V” shape on the ball.
  3. Move your thumb underneath the ball, positioning it so that it is touching the bottom seam of the ball.
  4. Grip the ball firmly with your fingertips and keep your thumb pressed firmly against the bottom seam of the ball.
  5. You may experiment with varying the pressure on the ball with your fingers and thumb. This will adjust the speed and movement of the pitch.

How to Pitch:

  1. Start in your windup or set position on the pitching rubber.
  2. Grip the ball with your splitter fastball grip, with your fingers positioned in a “V” shape. Your thumb should be positioned underneath.
  3. Bring your throwing arm back behind your body, keeping your elbow at or above shoulder level.
  4. As you begin, focus on maintaining a firm grip on the ball. Create downward pressure on the ball by pulling it down with your index and middle fingers.
  5. As your arm comes forward, release the ball with a throwing motion. A motion similar to a fastball but with a bit more downward action on the ball.
  6. Focus on maintaining a consistent release point and varying the speed and movement of the pitch. You do this by adjusting the pressure on the ball with your fingers and thumb.
  7. Consistent practice helps develop a feel for the pitch over time.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, pitchers use different baseball pitches to keep batters off-balance. Common baseball pitches include the four-seam fastball, curveball, and knuckleball. Baseball pitches require a specific grip and motion for the desired outcome. Pitchers need to practice consistently to perfect their technique and become successful on the mound.

Best Catchers Mitts

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Choosing a new catcher’s mitt can seem like a daunting process considering how many mitts there are to choose from. You have to take into consideration the size of the mitt, the padding, how comfortable it is to wear, how easy it is to break-in, and the price. Keep in mind that while there are plenty of affordable catcher’s mitts available on the market, you do not necessarily want to choose the cheapest mitt.

Your mitt is what enables to catch incoming balls and scoop them up off the ground to stop the opposing team from scoring a run. Therefore, you want the best mitt possible, which means spending the money to get it. Fortunately, the list below provides you with some of the best catcher’s mitts available on the market that best suit a variety of budgets, and each provides its own list of potential advantages and drawbacks. However, you should find your purchase decision far easier thanks to this comprehensive review.

1. Rawlings | Heart of The Hide Baseball Glove Series




Rawlings | Heart of The Hide Baseball Glove Series

  • DESIGNED FOR PITCHERS, this Heart of the Hide 11.5 inch 1-Piece Solid Web glove was designed with a pattern…
  • WORLD-RENOWNED HEART OF THE HIDE BASEBALL GLOVE LEATHER is cut from the top quality steer hides
  • HIGH-END, COMFORTABLE FEEL thanks to the deer tanned cowhide palm lining and soft full-grain finger back linings

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The Rawlings | Heart of The Hide Baseball Glove Series tops this list for many reasons. Not only is it made by one of the most recognized brands in the sports world, the glove itself is regularly used by professional, which means it must be a reliable mitt that performs well on the field.

Available in black/camel mesh, you can also order the glove in a variety of color options as part of the Heart of the Hide line, this mitt features:

  • 3.5 ounces lighter than a traditional glove

  • 11.5 Inch 200 Pattern – Pro I Web – Conventional Back, Deer-Tanned Cowhide

  • Pro Grade Leather laces – Padded thumb sleeve – Hyper Shell 15% Lighter

  • Thermoformed hand opening – Full grained fingerback linings

The Rawlings | Heart of The Hide Baseball Glove Series is available in a 33-inch and a 34-inch size for high school players all the way to the professional leagues. Made to the standards expected by MLB players like Yadier Molina and other catchers, you can bet that your hand will be in one of the best mitts possible.

2. All Star CM3000SBT Catcher’s Mitt




Allstar CM3000SBT 33.5″ Catchers Mitt

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The All Star CM3000SBT Catchers Mitt is certainly the priciest mitt on this list, but considering that it is crafted to perfection, it is certainly worth it, especially if you want a long-lasting, high-quality glove. The thing is, you can either purchase a cheap mitt that you will end up having to replace perhaps several times throughout the year, or you can buy an expensive mitt that is sure to last for years to come.

This mitt provides the following features and benefits:

  • Japanese tanned steerhide leather

  • Fast, easy break-in

  • Extended life

  • Soft leather pocket that provides comfort and reduced sting when catching the ball

  • Extended pocket to ensure easier ball pickup and catching

Visually speaking, this glove is a sight to behold. Its blonde and block coloration make it look just as good if not better than something a pro baseball player would be proud to wear. In fact, this particular mitt is a go-to mitt for many professional baseball players. The fact that this mitt comes nearly ready to use straight out of the box is just one of the reasons why its design accommodates more serious ball players.

3. Mizuno Prospect GXC112 Youth Catchers Mitt




Mizuno Prospect GXC112 Youth Catchers Mitt

  • Professional Level Lace: Same Durable Lace That’s Offered In Our Professional-Level Gloves.
  • Outlined, Embroidered Logo: For A Rich, Premium Look.
  • Bio Soft Leather

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If you are looking for something that is a little easier on your wallet, look no further than that Mizuno Prospect GXC112 Youth Catchers Mitt. This particular mitt does not require you to take out a second mortgage, amputate a limb, or sell your soul. It is a quality mitt for the price and offers several benefits for any baseball lover. If you want to give your kiddo a fantastic head start in baseball, this mitt is nothing to bat an eye at.

This mitt offers the following benefits:

  • Made from retro leather for durability and strength

  • Easy break in thanks to softer material

  • ParaShock finger channels to help absorb shock of catching the ball to reduce stress on the hand

This mitt is available in a 31.5-inch size and features a black on black look that is visually stunning. The palm pad ensures that your hand does not take the brunt of the ball’s impact when performing your duties as a catcher. Since this mitt comes out of the box in near game-ready condition, you can enjoy the benefits and overall performance of this glove immediately rather than having to take the time to focus on breaking it in.

4. Rawlings | Renegade Glove Series




Rawlings | Renegade Glove Series | Baseball/Slowpitch Softball | Multiple Styles

  • 32.5-inch first baseman’s mitt great for recreational games
  • All-leather shell construction for pocket formation and shape retention
  • Deep, well-formed pocket for ball security

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The Rawlings Renegade Series Catchers Mitt is yet another budget-friendly mitt with several benefits. In fact, it is the most budget-friendly on this list. This glove is available in a 31.5-inch and a 32.5-inch size, which means it is certainly for an adult with a bit smaller of a hand compared to some of the other gloves. However, it is within the range of standard sized catcher’s mitts. One benefit of this glove is that you can purchase it for either right-handed throw or left-handed throw. Keep in mind that you will pay a little more if you opt for a left-handed throw.

This particular mitt offers the following benefits:

  • Visually appealing black features

  • Roomy opening above the wrist for added comfort

  • Palm and finger pads to reduce the sting of ball impact

  • Closed web and a deep pocket to allow for better ball control, catch, and scoop

  • 20% player break-in

If you are looking for a glove that you can play from the minute it arrives on your doorstep, this is the glove for you. The full-grain leather material provides this mitt with the durability needed to withstand several hours, days, weeks, months, and perhaps even years of gameplay.

5. Akadema AGC98 Prodigy Series Glove




Akadema AGC98 Prodigy Series Glove,32-Inch-RT

  • 32″ circumference Praying Mantis pattern
  • Spiral lock web
  • Open back

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Yet another mitt available at the lower end of the budget spectrum, you can purchase the Akadema AGC98 Prodigy Series Glove. The price listed is for a right-handed throw mitt. If you wish to purchase the left-handed throw mitt, it too is available.

This glove offers a wide range of features including:

  • Deep pocket to help you capture the ball

  • Spiral web lock for better ball control

  • Open back for breathability to keep your hand cool

  • Praying Mantis style with two additional “finger hammocks” for firmer positioning of the hand

  • Shock absorption to reduce the sting of ball impact

This mitt also features a Grasp-Clasp wrist that ensures a comfortable and secure fit, which is of the utmost importance out of a quality glove. Part of what makes this mitt so incredible is that it was designed by MLB hall of famer, Gary Carter. If you are going to play with a quality mitt, why not play with one designed by a player that knows a thing or two about the overall design of a good mitt?

Final Thoughts

Each of the mitts featured on this list provide you with incredible benefits. They each accommodate varying budgets, which helps make your purchase decision that much easier. Whether you are looking to spend less for a quality mitt that might require a bit of break-in work or you are willing to spend a high-end price for a glove that is sure to last and game ready, you are sure to find what it is you need. Make sure you check out the youth catcher’s mitt reviews as well as our fastpitch catcher’s mitt reviews.

Featured Image via Unsplash

Looking At The Best Baseball Gloves Reviews: Buyer’s Guide

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Best Baseball Gloves Reviews

All players want to have the best baseball gloves possible. Unfortunately, though, many players don’t know how to get the best baseball gloves. They just take a chance when they make a purchase.

However, if you know how to shop for gloves and what to look for, you don’t ever have to “take a chance.” You can clearly know the features to look for in a baseball glove and then choose accordingly.

To help you get started off on the right foot (or, rather, the right hand), follow these simple tips for finding the best baseball gloves.

Consider Synthetic Leather for Your Glove

real-leather-gloves-image

As you shop for baseball gloves, you will notice that these gloves are made from a very wide range of materials.

While most materials have their pros and cons, one of the better options you’ll find is synthetic leather.

Baseball gloves made from synthetic leather tend to be very affordable. Plus, they are lightweight enough for even the youngest players, and they also don’t have a “breaking in” requirement.

These gloves are pretty much ready to play with right from the start, which is great if you want to jump right into the game.

Know What Type of Thrower You Are

Whether you go with a synthetic leather glove or not, remember that the type of thrower you are matters greatly when choosing gloves.

If you are a right hand thrower, you’ll need a glove that fits your left hand, i.e. your non-throwing hand. Left hand throwers will need gloves that fit their right hands.

type-of-thrower-image

Obviously, each glove type is made differently, so it is very important to know what type of thrower you are ahead of time to ensure you end up with the right glove.

Aim for Just the Right Fit

Another thing that is important when choosing a baseball glove is choosing one that is properly fitted.

type-of-thrower-image

The worst thing is a baseball glove that is too tight. A too-tight glove will not provide you with the flexibility you need and can lead to hand cramps and other issues. As such, aim for a glove that fits securely over your batting glove but still gives you plenty of room to move your hand and fingers around freely.

It’s also smart to get an adjustable glove so you can play with the fit as needed. People often notice changes to the glove and its fit as it ages, so being able to adjust the sizing is a nice bonus.

What About Real Leather Gloves?

Earlier we mentioned some of the many benefits of going for a glove crafted out of synthetic leather.

And, while the synthetic stuff is definitely a nice option, you may be wondering about real leather gloves.

Real leather gloves are not a bad choice. Understand, however, that they can be a bit pricey and that you have several different options you can choose from.

Synthetic-Leather-image

For example, you could go with softened leather that has been treated with oil. This type of glove is easy to break in and can be played with immediately. Aside from this type of leather, there is mid-quality leather, which does have to be broken in but which works well after this period, and high quality leather, which will be very costly but which will provide a glove that lasts for the long haul.

As you can see, gloves of just about any material can and will work. It’s really just about what you can afford and how quickly you want to start using your glove.

Choose the Perfect Padding Amount

paded-gloves

As you shop for a baseball glove, you will likely notice that the amount of padding varies greatly from one glove to the next.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that how much padding you need is just a matter of preference. Instead, you should base your padding amount on the position that you play.

Catchers, for example, will need a lot of padding in order to protect their hands as they catch balls. Wrist padding is necessary for corner infielders, and each other position has its own unique padding needs as well.

As such, before you go shopping for a glove, have an idea of what position or positions you are likely to play and then buy your glove accordingly.

What is Your Webbing Preference?

Finally, one glove feature that you can choose on comfort and preference alone is the amount and type of webbing your glove has. Try on gloves with both open and closed webbing to see which one feels better.

weebing-gloves-image

As long as the webbing is strong and firmly attached to the glove, either choice should be just fine.

Do You Need a Glove Made for Your Position?

Although it’s not necessary, having a baseball glove that is made for your playing position can be incredibly beneficial. However, if you go between infield and outfield, you’ll want to choose one that offers you benefits for both positions. But if you’re, say, a catcher, you should choose a glove made specifically for catchers.

Choosing the Best Baseball Gloves

As you can see, there is a lot to think about when choosing a baseball glove. By keeping these tips in mind, however, you should end up with the perfect glove for your game.

5 Best BBCOR Bats

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Best BBCOR Bats

There are many factors that go into designing a great baseball bat. Size is important, price is important, weight is important, even material is important. These can come down to player preference in many cases, but knowing what you want and what has the performance you need is important. And then there’s another thing that is important. You need to know whether a bat holds the BBCOR designation before you buy it.

BBCOR stands for “Bat Ball Coefficient of Restitution” and is the standard when measuring baseball bats. It measures something called a trampoline effect and has various measurements involved in testing. This ensures that all bats are going to give the same performance, whether wooden or otherwise. As such, having a BBCOR bat is important for anyone in high school or college baseball teams, among others. Bats with this designation will have a stamp that proclaims it right on the bat. Make sure you always look for that when buying a new bat.

Because BBCOR is so popular and required in many instances, there is a huge amount bats out there with the stamp. Finding one that fits you and your needs can be daunting. That’s why we’re here, though. We researched dozens of BBCOR bats, so you don’t have to. We’ve found the best and brightest of the equipment. We’ll break down the warranties, feel of the bat, design, special features, and more. Details that affect usage will be mentioned in order to give you a good basis for comparison. So let’s get the ball rolling!

Easton 2014 S500 BB14S500 BBCOR Baseball Bat (-3) Mizuno MZE243 Bamboo Elite Wood Baseball Bat – Navy/Red – BBCOR Certified Marucci Cat 6 BBCOR Baseball Bat Louisville Slugger 2016 Omaha 516 Bbcor (-3) Baseball Bat Rawlings Adult 2016 Velo Balanced Bbcor -3 Baseball Bat
7050 aircraft alloy composition Bamboo and glass fiber composition One-piece alloy composition 7U1 alloy composition 5150 alloy composition
31″, 32″, 33″, 34″ sizes available 31″, 32″, 33″, 34″ sizes available 31″, 32″, 33″, 34″ sizes available 31″, 32″, 33″, 34″ sizes available 31″, 32″, 33″, 34″ sizes available
Balanced swing weight Slight end load swing weight Balanced swing weight Balanced swing weight Balanced swing weight
One year warranty 120 day warranty One year warranty 30 day performance promise & one year warranty One year warranty
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  • Easton 2014 S500 BB14S500 BBCOR Baseball Bat (-3)
  • 7050 aircraft alloy composition
  • 31″, 32″, 33″, 34″ sizes available
  • Balanced swing weight
  • One year warranty
  • Price: $

  • Mizuno MZE243 Bamboo Elite Wood Baseball Bat – Navy/Red – BBCOR Certified
  • Bamboo and glass fiber composition
  • 31″, 32″, 33″, 34″ sizes available
  • Slight end load swing weight
  • 120 day warranty
  • Price: $

  • Marucci Cat 6 BBCOR Baseball Bat
  • One-piece alloy composition
  • 31″, 32″, 33″, 34″ sizes available
  • Balanced swing weight
  • One year warranty
  • Price: $$

  • Louisville Slugger 2016 Omaha 516 Bbcor (-3) Baseball Bat
  • 7U1 alloy composition
  • 31″, 32″, 33″, 34″ sizes available
  • Balanced swing weight
  • 30 day performance promise & one year warranty
  • Price: $$

  • Rawlings Adult 2016 Velo Balanced Bbcor -3 Baseball Bat
  • 5150 alloy composition
  • 31″, 32″, 33″, 34″ sizes available
  • Balanced swing weight
  • One year warranty
  • Price: $$$

Easton S500 3 BBCOR Adult Baseball Bat

41vN1MRCsFL._SL250_Easton is a brand that is well-known and represented on nearly all baseball fields across the nation. The S500-3 is one of the best BBCOR bats out there, while not being overly flashy or showy. It simply gets the job done. Those who want an impressive look to their bat may not be impressed but if you just want to smash balls all day long, check out this Easton. It has all the trimmings that are needed without all the fat, which is something that many really love.

Like all BBCOR bats out there, the drop weight for the S500-3 is a -3. It has a standard barrel diameter of 2 5/8”, as well. The Easton 5500-3 comes in various sizes including 31”, 32”, 33”, and 34”. These are pretty standard but it’s always nice to know you have options.  It is constructed of 7050 aircraft alloy, something that gives a great swing speed and makes it stand out against the pack. As far as the handle goes, it is thin and tapered with an all sports grip that people love. It seems to be a good fit for nearly everyone who has used it.

This bat has an understated design that is mostly blacks and greys, but uses yellow for highlights. It’s classy and not very overwhelming if that’s something you enjoy in your choice of bat. It’s a solid bat for the first time player or someone who has experience but not as much cash. You aren’t going to have complaints, either way.

Pros:

  • Constructed of 7050 aircraft alloy for quick swing
  • All sports grip to keep it steady
  • Balanced swing weight
  • Cheapest bat on the list
  • One-year warranty

Cons:

  • Older style bat, might turn some off
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Mizuno Bamboo Elite MZE243

2This bat is billed as “the ultimate training bat” and it’s not hard to see why. Made by Mizuno, a company with years of experience engineering bamboo bats. This bat in particular is a combination of bamboo and glass fiber, which makes it super durable and able to stand up to anything. It also offers a sanded handle to give a better grip than a typical bamboo bat would. These things make it a bit new and different, which some really enjoy and some don’t.

The drop weight is the standard -3 of a BBCOR certified bat. It comes in a 31”, 32”, 33” and 34”. It comes with a standard diameter for a BBCOR and is approved for collegiate play. This is definitely the right option for someone looking for a BBCOR but wanting to hold onto some wood. It’s a really nice design and stands up to the competitors around it. It has the needed facets and bumps them up a notch with the wooden style.

The colors on this one are red for the handle and blue for the rest of the bat. It’s pretty subtle and unassuming to me, not flashy at all, just a typical look for a bat. But it doesn’t need to look like a flashy bat. The bamboo and glass fiber makes it interesting from the get-go. For those who like something a bit more unique than the typical, this bat is going to make you joyous. Check it out and see what I mean. You’ll love it, if you’re like me.

Pros:

  • 120-day warranty and one-time replacement
  • Unique bamboo and glass fiber composition
  • Sanded handle for better grip
  • Decent price

Cons:

  • May require batting tape for grip rather than pine tar
  • Marks up pretty easily
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Marucci Cat 6

21xCHLcJD8L._SL250_The Marucci Cat 6 is a great bat with some astounding features. It has a 2 5/8” barrel which is extended for a bigger sweet spot and maximum performance. It has a typical drop weight of -3. This bat is similar to the ones above in that it comes in sizes from 31” up to 34”. It is made of an alloy and is one piece to give a feel that reminds you of the good old days. It’s known for being both durable and having amazing performance ability. Another perk in this one is that it incorporates a patented anti-vibration knob to eliminate sting. It also has optimized thickness of the barrel-end wall to give up some fast and furious swings.

The look of the bat is extremely understated. It’s white with a gray handle and the name of the company and style is emblazoned on it in red. Other than that, no big graphics or anything of that nature. The bat is what it is and doesn’t need extra help from graphics. That said, it does look nice. I think if you prefer something a bit minimalistic, this bat could take you there. The colors look nice together and everything comes together as it should. Definitely a fan of this one for that.

Pros:

  • Patented anti-vibration technology
  • One-piece alloy construction
  • Extended barrel profile
  • 12-month manufacturer’s warranty

Cons:

  • White finish gets dirty easily
  • Higher price
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Louisville Slugger Omaha 516

31EXvbrmWCL._SL250_I’m sure nobody is surprised to see an offering from Louisville Slugger on the list as it is one of the most well-known bat makers there is. It comes with a -3 drop weight and has a 2 5/8” barrel, as do the rest of the 5 best BBCOR bats. In addition to this, the bat has a tapered handle and features Lizards Skins grip which gives more softness than the typical bat you might be. Also of note is the 7U1 Alloy which makes it the lightest of Omaha’s bats, ever. It has a huge sweet spot and thinner walls due to the flex band inside the barrel.

This bat is very graphically influenced with everything from black and white to red and yellow making an appearance. It is flashy and would be great for someone who enjoys that sort of equipment. It’s going to stand out and stand out well. That can be great for some but maybe not all. In either case, you’re never going to lose it with all that color going on! I can see these being popular in some crowds and for good reason, even if it’s not my personal taste.

Pros:

  • Lightest Omaha BBCOR to date
  • Flex band technology
  • 12-month warranty
  • Lizard Skins grip
  • Large sweet spot

Cons:

  • Price is a bit higher than others
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Rawlings Velo

5121onTcnWL._SL1001_Last on the list is from Rawlings and it packs a hefty amount of features that make it special. This bat comes in the typical bat lengths from 31” up to 34”. It has a -3 length to weight ratio, as expected. It also has a standard barrel diameter of 2 5/8”. The Velo is one of the best BBCOR bats out there and offers an alloy handle that gives a grounded feel at the plate This bat is known for being balanced and that partially comes from the composite end cap used in the design of the bat. It also features precision optimized performance than gives more flex in the barrel and expands the size of the sweet stop. This leads to a bat that will not let you down when you’re out there swinging.

The Velo is mainly silver and blue but there is a bit of yellow in spots. It’s a nice looking but not overly flashy bat. Anyone who likes blue is bound to like it as the largest surface area is a navy blue color. There’s nothing really special about the looks, otherwise. It’s another of those bats that puts its features where they should be, in the actual bat performance. In this case, the look isn’t bad and won’t dissuade people from buying this particular bat.

Pros:

  • Huge sweet spot
  • Weight is well distributed
  • Very lightweight feel
  • Maximum strength and ping
  • 12-month warranty

Cons:

  • This is the most expensive bat on our list
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There you have it, The 5 Best BBCOR Bats on the market. You are now informed to make an educated purchasing decision.