Finding the right middle infield glove is essential for quick glove-to-throw transitions, reliable fielding, and comfortable fits at shortstop or second base. Below are five highly regarded infield gloves, with options spanning youth to pro-style gloves. Each selection emphasizes quick ball transfer, durable construction, and a snug fit to help players stay sharp during fast-paced plays.
Summary Of Selected Products
| Product | Brand | Size / Model | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rawlings Sandlot Infield Glove | Rawlings | 11.5 in. Infield Model | Full-grain oiled shell leather; Zero Shock palm pads |
| MacGregor Infield Training Glove | MacGregor | Infield Training Glove | Pancake style; quick glove-to-throw transition |
| Wilson A2000 1786 Infield Glove | Wilson | 11.5” Right Hand Throw | Pro Stock Leather; Comfort Pro Fit; Rolled Dual Welting |
| Wilson 1716 Infield Glove | Wilson | 11.5” Right Hand Throw | Pro Stock Leather; Flat Finger Binding |
| Wilson A500 12″ Youth Infield Glove | Wilson | 12″ Youth Infield Glove | Open Dual Post Web; youth-friendly design |
Rawlings Sandlot Infield Glove — 11.5 in.
Rawlings Sandlot Series offers a durable, game-ready option for infield play. The 11.5 inch model provides a balanced pocket suitable for quick fielding at shortstop or second base. Its full-grain oiled shell leather enhances longevity, while Zero Shock palm pads deliver additional impact protection on hard grounders and line drives. The Pro I Web design helps maintain the glove’s shape during intense fielding drills and games.
MacGregor Infield Training Glove
The MacGregor Infield Training Glove is designed to aid infielders during practice sessions. Its pancake-style pocket supports a quick transition from catching to throwing, which is valuable for middle infielders who frequently need to release the ball rapidly. Leather construction provides reasonable durability for drills and repeated use, and the glove’s lightweight feel helps maintain agility during practice and scrimmages.
Wilson A2000 1786 Infield Glove — 11.5”
Wilson’s A2000 1786 combines Pro Stock Leather with Comfort Pro Fit and a rolled dual welting system. This glove is favored for its rugged durability and premium feel, offering a snug fit around the hand and wrist. The rolled welting and comfortable liner reduce pinch points during long games, while the Pro Lux liner adds a softer touch for improved control on quick plays at second or shortstop.
Wilson A2000 1716 Infield Glove — 11.5”
The Wilson 1716 model focuses on comfort with Flat Finger Binding, reducing pressure when a player’s finger sits near the glove’s back. Pro Stock Leather ensures durability and a dependable feel for quick plays on the infield. The combination of a softer interior and a supportive outer shell helps maintain a ready-to-throw posture throughout a game.
Wilson A500 12″ Youth Infield Glove
The Wilson A500 is tailored for younger players transitioning into infield duties. The 12-inch size offers a comfortable grip and a balanced pocket with an Open Dual Post Web, enabling reliable ball tracking and quick releases. The glove’s youth specificity helps players develop proper mechanics without sacrificing control during drills and games.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations For Middle Infield Gloves
Selecting the right middle infield glove involves balancing size, material, pocket design, and hand fit. Here are essential factors to consider from multiple perspectives:
- Size and position fit: For middle infielders, 11.5″ is a popular size, offering a compact pocket for quick transfers while maintaining a usable fielding surface. For younger players, a 12″ youth model can be more forgiving and easier to control.
- Web type and pocket depth: Infield gloves typically feature closed or semi-open webs that help track grounders and backhand plays. A deeper pocket aids ball retrieval, while a shallower pocket supports quicker transitions for fast plays at second and shortstop.
- Leather quality and break-in period: Full-grain oiled leather or Pro Stock Leather provides durability and a premium feel, but may require a longer break-in period. Synthetic blends offer faster readiness but may wear more quickly under heavy use.
- Weight and comfort: The glove’s interior lining and wrist closure influence comfort during long sessions. Features like Comfort Pro Fit, rolled welting, and a snug wrist sleeve can reduce fatigue and improve hand placement.
- Durability vs. budget: Higher-end models deliver longer life and improved feel, while entry-level gloves focus on value and quicker readiness. For competitive play, investing in a well-made infield glove often pays off over time.
- Maintenance and care: Regular cleaning, proper oiling for leather gloves, and consistent break-in routines help preserve glove performance. Store gloves with proper shapes when not in use to extend life.
- Right hand throw vs left hand throw: Ensure you select the correct handedness for your stance. Infield gloves are commonly designed for right-handed throwers, with the glove on the left hand.
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