If you’re still growing, get a baseball glove that fits instead of one that you’ll grow into. Wearing a glove that works well is the best method to develop fielding and catching techniques. Outfielders typically wear giant gloves, whereas infielders typically wear smaller gloves with a smaller pocket.
After you’ve purchased a glove, you’ll need to break it in. Playing catch with pals is the most acceptable way to break in a new baseball glove, and it’s also a lot of fun.
If you don’t have time to break in your glove, spreading shaving cream into the pocket, inserting a ball in the bag, tying a rope or sock around the glove, and then leaving the glove in a dry spot is one way to speed up the process.
Use your glove to practice catching. Keep in mind that you’ll be catching with your weaker hand to free up your throwing arm. If you’re right-handed, for example, you should wear a glove on your left hand. You might not be used to catching with your weaker hand, so it’s a good idea to practice.
Make sure you understand the rules of your league before purchasing a baseball bat. There are minor changes in bat size and weight allowed by different clubs, and whether they are made of wood or aluminum, don’t waste your money on something you won’t be able to use.
When you’re playing for the first time, don’t put yourself on vital defensive positions like catcher or first base unless you’re entirely sure. If you don’t take advantage of these opportunities, you’ll lose confidence.
When batting, avoid swinging at anything below your knees or above your shoulders, as this is the area that the umpire should consider outside the hypothetical “strike zone” — the place where the ball must be pitched to be considered legal.
Don’t make the typical error of gazing at the pitcher’s eyes before hitting. Instead, concentrate on the location where the pitcher’s hand will emerge from the sky to deliver the ball.
Simply throwing a lot will help you develop your throwing strength. You’ll have some natural arm strength, but you’ll have to work hard to enhance it. Do some throwing drills two to three times a week, during which you should toss the ball for three minutes at various distances, such as 9m (30ft), 18m (60ft), 27m (90ft), and 36m (120ft).
When it comes to sports, keep in mind that everyone makes mistakes, even the finest players. If you make a mistake, especially as a novice, don’t get too worked up about it; learn from it and move on with your game.
