Why Does a Catcher Need a Different Glove?

Amongst baseball gloves, there are a few field positions which claim to require different types of gloves, though it might seem that a different style of mitt is unnecessary.  For some field positions, this is true, but the catcher is unique.  Catchers mitts are characterized by their wide diameter, and additional thickness. The width of the catcher’s mitt is necessary for scooping up balls, and also to serve as a target for the pitcher. The extra thickness of the catcher’s mitt is necessary to offer some protection from the pitcher’s fastballs.

Legendary baseball pitchers have thrown balls upwards of 105 miles per hour, with 100-102 as a normal speed for certain closers. This takes quite a toll on a catcher’s hand, and is also one of the reasons they wear so much protective gear.

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1. Catchers Mitt
2. Buying a Youth Baseball Glove
3. My First Season as a Catcher
4. In Praise of the Unsung First Baseman
5. Consider Professional-Grade Mitts