The Legends of the Hot Corner: Unveiling the Best Third Basemen in Baseball History

When it comes to the game of baseball, each position carries its own unique set of skills and demands. Third base, known as the hot corner, requires exceptional reflexes, lightning-fast instincts, and a reliable glove. Throughout the storied history of the game, numerous third basemen have graced the diamond and left an indelible mark on the sport. In this blog post, we celebrate the best third basemen to ever play the game, taking into account both their offensive prowess and the gloves they wielded with precision.

1. Brooks Robinson - Baltimore Orioles (1955-1977): Considered the epitome of defensive excellence, Brooks Robinson was a wizard with the glove. A 16-time Gold Glove winner, Robinson was a master at snatching line drives, making jaw-dropping diving stops, and displaying an arm that could gun down runners with ease. His defensive wizardry earned him the nickname "The Human Vacuum Cleaner." Robinson's skills were instrumental in the Orioles' success, including two World Series championships. His unmatched glove work makes him an undeniable candidate for the best third baseman ever.

2. Mike Schmidt - Philadelphia Phillies (1972-1989): Known for his prodigious power at the plate, Mike Schmidt was equally impressive with his defensive abilities. With ten Gold Gloves to his name, Schmidt combined exceptional range, quick reflexes, and a strong arm to make incredible plays on a routine basis. His fielding prowess was a testament to his athleticism and dedication to perfection. Schmidt's glove, combined with his remarkable offensive numbers, solidifies his status as one of the all-time greats at the hot corner.

3. Adrian Beltre - Los Angeles Dodgers, Seattle Mariners, Boston Red Sox, Texas Rangers (1998-2018): Adrian Beltre's career was defined by his infectious passion for the game and his remarkable defensive skills. Renowned for his cat-like reflexes and acrobatic plays, Beltre brought an intensity to third base that few could match. With five Gold Gloves, his quick hands and exceptional footwork allowed him to turn potential hits into outs effortlessly. Beltre's remarkable consistency and his ability to make jaw-dropping plays have earned him a rightful place among the best third basemen ever.

4. George Brett - Kansas City Royals (1973-1993): George Brett, a career-long Royal, was not only an offensive powerhouse but also a defensive stalwart. Known for his textbook fundamentals, Brett's glove work was characterized by impeccable positioning and a strong arm. He won one Gold Glove and consistently showcased his defensive prowess throughout his career. Brett's combination of offensive brilliance and a reliable glove solidify his place as one of the finest third basemen of all time.

5. Eddie Mathews - Boston/Milwaukee Braves, Houston Astros, Detroit Tigers (1952-1968): Eddie Mathews, a true power hitter, was also an exceptional defender at third base. Although he played most of his career before the introduction of the Gold Glove award, Mathews' glove skills were highly regarded. With a strong throwing arm and excellent range, Mathews was a formidable presence at the hot corner. His impact on the game, both offensively and defensively, earned him a well-deserved spot among the best third basemen in history.

As we reflect upon the history of baseball, it becomes evident that the best third basemen were not only formidable offensive threats but also relied on their gloves to leave a lasting legacy. From the spectacular plays of Brooks Robinson and the raw power of Mike Schmidt to the acrobatics of Adrian Beltre and the textbook fundamentals of George Brett and Eddie Mathews, these are the very best.

In all cases they knew how important maintaining the gloves they used to maximize peak performance. This is the magic of Mitt-Spit baseball glove care products.

The unveiling of the most popular baseball gloves in use today.

Baseball, often referred to as America's favorite pastime, captivates fans with its thrilling moments and remarkable displays of skill. While the sport revolves around the players, their tools are equally crucial for success. Among the essential equipment in a baseball player's arsenal, the baseball glove stands out as a symbol of precision and defensive prowess. In this post, we delve into the world of baseball gloves to uncover the most popular models in use today.

1. Rawlings Heart of the Hide Series: The Rawlings Heart of the Hide series has earned a well-deserved reputation for its exceptional craftsmanship and high-quality materials. These gloves are meticulously handcrafted from premium steer hide leather, offering superior durability and game-ready performance. With their excellent fit and comfortable feel, these gloves have become a favorite among professional players and serious enthusiasts alike.

2. Wilson A2000 Series: Widely regarded as one of the most reliable and durable gloves on the market, the Wilson A2000 series continues to dominate the baseball scene. Known for their top-tier craftsmanship and attention to detail, these gloves are constructed with Pro Stock leather that ensures exceptional longevity and a quick break-in period. The A2000's innovative design features advanced pocket and web designs, enhancing the player's ability to secure the ball with precision.

3. Mizuno Pro Select Series: Mizuno's Pro Select series has gained considerable popularity due to its blend of performance, comfort, and affordability. These gloves are crafted from high-quality steerhide leather, which provides excellent durability and a soft, supple feel. The Pro Select series offers a range of options, accommodating different positions and player preferences, making it a reliable choice for both amateurs and professionals.

4. Easton Professional Reserve Series: The Easton Professional Reserve series has garnered attention for its outstanding quality and attention to detail. These gloves are meticulously handcrafted using premium Japanese Reserve leather, renowned for its superior strength and durability. With an emphasis on customization, Easton offers a wide range of models, allowing players to find the perfect fit for their needs and preferences.

5. Nokona Walnut Series: Nokona, a brand known for its handcrafted excellence, presents the Walnut series, a line of gloves that embodies tradition and quality. These gloves are made from Nokona's signature Walnut Crunch leather, which provides remarkable durability and an unmatched vintage look. The Walnut series offers a timeless design combined with modern performance features, making it a popular choice among traditionalists and collectors.

Players demand performance, durability, and comfort. The gloves mentioned above—the Rawlings Heart of the Hide, Wilson A2000, Mizuno Pro Select, Easton Professional Reserve, and Nokona Walnut—have all established themselves as popular choices among baseball players of all levels. Whether you're a professional athlete, an aspiring amateur, or simply a passionate fan, investing in one of these renowned gloves will undoubtedly elevate your game and enhance your overall baseball experience.

When choosing a baseball glove, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Position: The type of position you play will affect the size and shape of the glove you need. For example, first baseman and catcher gloves are larger than shortstop and third baseman gloves.

• Handedness: Make sure to choose a glove that is designed for your dominant hand.

• Material: Baseball gloves are made from a variety of materials, including leather, synthetic leather, and even wood. Leather gloves are the most popular choice, but synthetic leather gloves are becoming more popular due to their durability and affordability.

• Price: Baseball gloves can range in price from around $50 to $500. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you do not overspend.

Now that you know the most popular mitts in use today and what you should think about before buying a glove, it’s also a good idea to learn how to best take care of it. It all starts with proper break-in. Then as the glove is used, cleaning and conditioning with the correct products will help keep your glove in tiptop condition for the life of the glove. This is where Mitt-Spit products really shine. Here’s a link back to the home page: www.mitt-spit.com

My five best baseball players of all time and the glove they used.

The 5 Best Baseball Players of All Time

Baseball is a sport that has been around for over 150 years, and during that time, there have been many great players who have graced the field. It is difficult to narrow down the list to just 5, but here is my attempt to do so.

1. Babe Ruth

Babe Ruth is widely considered to be the greatest baseball player of all time. He played for the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees, and he was a dominant force on both offense and defense. He hit 714 home runs, which is still a record today, and he also won 9 World Series championships. Ruth's baseball glove was a Rawlings HOH255.

2. Willie Mays

Willie Mays is another player who is often mentioned in the conversation for the greatest baseball player of all time. He played for the New York Giants and the San Francisco Giants, and he was a five-tool player who excelled at hitting, running, fielding, and throwing. Mays won 12 Gold Glove awards, and he was also a 24-time All-Star. His baseball glove was a Wilson A2000.

3. Ty Cobb

Ty Cobb is considered by many to be the greatest pure hitter in baseball history. He played for the Detroit Tigers and the Philadelphia Athletics, and he won 12 batting titles. Cobb had a lifetime batting average of .366, which is still the highest in Major League Baseball history. His baseball glove was a Reach.

4. Ted Williams

Ted Williams is another player who is known for his incredible hitting ability. He played for the Boston Red Sox, and he won 6 batting titles. Williams had a lifetime batting average of .344, and he also won 2 World Series championships. His baseball glove was a Rawlings HOH255.

5. Hank Aaron

Hank Aaron is the all-time home run leader in Major League Baseball. He played for the Milwaukee Braves and the Atlanta Braves, and he hit 755 home runs in his career. Aaron also won 2 World Series championships and 3 Gold Glove awards. His baseball glove was a Wilson A2000.

These are just 5 of the many great baseball players who have graced the field. It is impossible to say definitively who is the greatest of all time, but these players are all certainly in the conversation.

Who would be on your list? Send me your entries by posting in the comments. I’d love to hear your choices.

Five of the Most Famous Baseball Gloves in History

Baseball is a sport that has been around for over 150 years, and in that time, there have been many famous baseball gloves. Some of these gloves are famous for their quality, while others are famous for the players who used them. Here are five of the most famous baseball gloves in history:

1. The Louisville Slugger H&B Model J100

The Louisville Slugger H&B Model J100 is one of the most famous baseball gloves in history. It was made by the Louisville Slugger company, which is also known for making baseball bats. The H&B Model J100 was first made in 1905, and it quickly became popular with professional baseball players. The glove was made of high-quality leather, and it had a comfortable fit. It was also very durable, and it could withstand the rigors of professional baseball. The H&B Model J100 was used by many famous baseball players, including Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, and Lou Gehrig.

1. The Rawlings Gold Glove

The Rawlings Gold Glove is another famous baseball glove. It is awarded annually to the best defensive player at each position in Major League Baseball. The award was first given out in 1957, and it has been given out every year since then. The Rawlings Gold Glove is a symbol of excellence, and it is one of the most coveted awards in baseball.

1. The Wilson A2000

The Wilson A2000 is a popular baseball glove that is known for its quality and durability. The A2000 was first made in 1987, and it has been a popular choice among professional baseball players ever since. The glove is made of high-quality leather, and it has a comfortable fit. It is also very durable, and it can withstand the rigors of professional baseball. The A2000 has been used by many famous baseball players, including Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, and Mariano Rivera.

1. The Rawlings Heart of the Hide

The Rawlings Heart of the Hide is another popular baseball glove that is known for its quality and durability. The Heart of the Hide was first made in 1974, and it has been a popular choice among professional baseball players ever since. The glove is made of high-quality leather from the heart of the hide, and it has a comfortable fit. It is also very durable, and it can withstand the rigors of professional baseball. The Heart of the Hide has been used by many famous baseball players, including Roberto Clemente, Reggie Jackson, and Cal Ripken Jr.

1. The Mizuno Pro Select

The Mizuno Pro Select is a high-end baseball glove that is known for its quality and performance. The Pro Select was first made in 2004, and it has quickly become a popular choice among professional baseball players. The glove is made of high-quality Japanese leather, and it has a comfortable fit. It is also very durable, and it can withstand the rigors of professional baseball. The Pro Select has been used by many famous baseball players, including Ichiro Suzuki, Yu Darvish, and Masahiro Tanaka.

These are just a few of the most famous baseball gloves in history. There are many other great gloves out there, but these are some of the most iconic. If you are looking for a high-quality baseball glove, any of these gloves would be a great choice.

If you are fortunate enough to own one of these gloves, it’s really important that you take proper care of it. That’s where the Mitt-Spit line of products comes in. You own an iconic glove. Love on it with the right products and the mitt will last decades.

Rules of baseball have had numerous changes over the years.

Baseball is one of the oldest sports in the world, and its rules have evolved over time to reflect changes in the game and the way it is played. Here are some of the most significant rule changes in baseball history:

• 1857: The pitcher's mound is moved back from 45 to 60 feet, 6 inches. This change made it more difficult for pitchers to throw strikes, which led to an increase in offense.

• 1889: The number of balls in a walk is reduced from nine to four. This change made it easier for batters to reach base, which also led to an increase in offense.

• 1903: The American League adopts the foul strike rule. This rule makes it a strike if a batter hits a foul ball except after two strikes. This change made it more difficult for batters to avoid striking out, which helped to balance the offense and defense.

• 1920: The spitball is banned. The spitball is a type of pitch that is illegal because it is difficult for the batter to see. This rule change made it easier for batters to hit the ball, which led to an increase in offense.

• 1954: The designated hitter is adopted by the American League. The designated hitter is a player who bats for the pitcher, which allows the pitcher to focus on pitching and not worry about hitting. This rule change has led to an increase in offense in the American League.

• 1969: The pitcher's mound is lowered from 15 to 10 inches. This change made it easier for batters to hit the ball, which led to an increase in offense.

• 1973: The designated hitter is adopted by the National League. This rule change has led to an increase in offense in the National League.

• 2020: The runner on second base rule is implemented in extra innings. This rule change shortens the length of extra innings games and makes them more exciting.

• 2023: This is the year of significant changes that speeds the game up.  There’s a new pitcher’s clock, bigger bases, limited number of pick-off attempts by the pitcher leading to more steals and banning infield shifts reducing defense ability to load up one side of the infield.

These are just a few of the many rule changes that have occurred in baseball history. As the game continues to evolve, it is likely that more rule changes will be made in the future.

How the baseball glove evolved

Baseball is a sport that has been around for over 100 years. While many things have changed over the years, one thing that was learned since then is the need for a good baseball glove. You may be wondering how the gloves of today differ from those used in the very early days of baseball.

Let's go back 150 years. Baseball gloves were first introduced in the 1870s, but they were not the type of gloves that we know today. In those days, it was frowned upon for a fielder to wear a glove. So most games were played with the fielders catching the ball with their bare hands. Some players realized they needed some protection creating a makeshift glove out of rags or other materials. So the concept of a baseball mitt was conceived. Back then, the glove was simply made from thin leather with no real padding. It was intended to provide some protection for the player’s hand, not help them catch the ball.

It wasn't until the early 1900s that gloves began to take on a more recognizable form. Gloves were still made of leather, but they were thicker, heavier and had more padded. However, they were not very flexible and were difficult to break in. This meant that players had to spend a lot of time breaking in their gloves and molding them to their hands. Over the next 100 years the glove have morphed considerably.

Fast forward to today, and baseball gloves have come a long way. Gloves are now made of a variety of materials, including leather, synthetic materials, and even mesh. They are much more flexible but still require a break in process.  It’s just a bit easier now when compared to the gloves of the past. In addition, gloves are now designed with specific positions in mind. For example, a catcher's mitt is much different than a first baseman's glove.

Another major difference between gloves of today and those of the past is the level of customization available. Players can now choose from a wide range of colors, designs, and sizes. They can even have their gloves personalized with their name or team logo.

Overall, the differences between baseball gloves of today and those of 100 years ago are significant. While the basic concept of the glove remains the same, advances in materials and design have made gloves more comfortable, flexible, and functional. Whether you are a seasoned player or just starting out, make sure you invest in a good baseball glove.  It’s often a lifetime investment so buy a glove that you know will last decades.  And maintain the glove leather with proper cleaning and conditioning the leather to prolong the mitt’s life. Proper long-term maintenance will help you perform at your best on the field.

What's the Iodine Index and why is it important

We know it’s important to properly apply oil or conditioners to leather.  What’s also important to know which oils are good for leather and which can go rancid. Have you ever heard of the iodine index? This measurement is used to determine the potential for rancidity in oils, which is an important factor to consider for health reasons.

The iodine index, sometimes called the iodine value, is a measure of the unsaturated fatty acids present in an oil which determines the oil’s potential for rancidity. Unsaturated fatty acids contain double bonds between carbon atoms, which can become rancid when exposed to oxygen and heat. The iodine index is determined by adding iodine to the oil, which reacts with the double bonds to form a complex that can be measured.

The higher the iodine index, the more unsaturated fatty acids are present in the oil. This means that the oil is more susceptible to oxidation, which leads to rancidity. Rancidity is characterized by a stale, unpleasant, unhealthy odor.  I’m sure you’ve seen young boys and girls standing in the outfield totally bored and literally putting their mitt in their mouth.

Different oils have different iodine indexes, depending on their composition. For example, coconut oil has a very low iodine index of around 10, which means it contains mostly saturated fatty acids and is less prone to rancidity. On the other hand, soybean oil has an iodine index of around 130, indicating that it is high in unsaturated fatty acids and more prone to rancidity. 

It's important to note that not all unsaturated fatty acids (oils) are created equal. Neat’s-foot oil has a value of about 72.  Mink oil runs about 88.  Mitt-Spit Glove Oil has an iodine index of about 1.  Making Mitt-Spit Glove Oil by far the safest to use to prevent rancidity.

The iodine index is an important measurement for assessing the potential for rancidity in oils. Oils high in unsaturated fatty acids are more susceptible to oxidation, which leads to rancidity. By choosing oils with lower iodine indexes, we can reduce the risk of rancidity and enjoy healthier lifestyle.

How is a baseball glove made?

Have you ever wondered how a baseball or softball glove is made? In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the process of creating this essential piece of baseball/softball equipment.

The Materials

The first step in making a baseball glove is to gather the materials. Most gloves are made from leather, which is typically cowhide or steerhide. The leather used for gloves is specially processed at a tannery to make it more durable and pliable. The leather hide is also typically dyed the iconic brown color that we associate with baseball gloves.  After the dying process, it can also be pigment coated any color of the rainbow. 

The leather is then cut following specific patterns into the various parts that make up the glove. These parts include the palm, webbing, and fingers. The pattern is specific to each type of glove with a catcher’s mitt being the most complicated. 

The Assembly

Once the leather parts have been cut, they are assembled into a glove including the padding material and other internals. The first step in this process is to stitch the leather parts together. Because of the contours and basic shape, this is often done by hand using a special type of needle and thread. The needle is in the curved shape of a half-moon.  The thread is typically a heavy-duty nylon for long term strength and durability. The stitching is key as it determines the shape and strength of the glove.

The next step is to shape the glove. This is done by placing a ball or other round object inside the glove and then tying it closed. This helps to create the “pocket.”

The glove is then processed with softening agents to reduce the leather’s inherent stiffness, making it more pliable. This helps to create a comfortable fit for the player.  However, it will still take some effort to break-in the leather, so it feels responsive on your hand.

The final step in the process is to add the finishing touches, such as lacing, promotional signatures or logos. The lacing is usually leather strips. They are used to tighten or loosen the glove as needed, while the logos and signatures are added for promotional and branding purposes.

The Result

After these steps have been completed, the result is a high-quality baseball glove that is ready to be broken-in and used on the field.  Properly breaking in a baseball mitt is necessary so that the finished product is both durable and comfortable, making it the prized possession for any baseball player.

The process of making a baseball glove is a combination of art and science. It requires skilled craftsmen who understand the properties of leather and how to stitch it together to create it functional and comfortable. Whether you are a professional player or a weekend warrior, the baseball glove is an essential part of the game that allows players to make incredible catches and turn the tide of a game.

What type of leather is used when making a baseball glove?

Baseball gloves are an essential piece of equipment for any player, and the leather used to make them plays a crucial role in their performance and durability. The type of leather used in baseball gloves can vary, but the most common types are steerhide, often called cowhide, and kangaroo leather.

Cowhide is the most widely used leather in baseball gloves due to its durability and affordability. Through the tanning process, cowhide leather is rendered thick and stiff, and it requires a break-in to make it more flexible and comfortable. Mitt-Spit Break-in solution shorted the break in time. The leather comes in varying degrees of quality. The higher the quality, the softer the feel. It is often used in high-end gloves because it offers better performance and comfort.

Kangaroo leather is becoming increasingly popular in baseball gloves due to its lightness and strength. It is also more flexible and easier to break in than cowhide or steerhide. However, it is more expensive and not as widely available as other types of leather.

The leather used in baseball gloves undergoes a rigorous tanning process to ensure that it is strong, flexible, and able to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Tanning is the process of treating animal hides to transform them into a durable material that can withstand the elements and repeated use. During the tanning process, the hides are treated with chemicals and oils to soften and preserve them, making them resistant to water and sweat.

In addition to the type of leather used, the design of the glove can also affect its performance. The pattern and webbing of the glove can impact how easy it is to catch and control the ball. The size and shape of the glove can also affect the player's ability to catch the ball and make quick throws.

The leather used in baseball gloves is an essential component of their performance and durability. Cowhide, steerhide, and kangaroo leather are the most commonly used types of leather, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Regardless of the type of leather used, the tanning process is crucial to ensure that the leather is strong and flexible. Choosing the right glove design and size can also have a significant impact on a player's performance on the field.

Can I put my glove in the oven?

I’ve heard that people will a glove in the oven to help soften it. Let’s take a look at what happens to the leather.

Glove leather has about 25% moisture content when new. That moisture content is what determines the suppleness and pliability of the leather. Warming the leather in an oven, will cause a rapid acceleration of that moisture. The speed at which it evaporates depends on how hot the oven gets and for how long the glove is exposed to heat. Also, consider that an oven is a very dry place also accelerating evaporation. So, it’s not a very good idea.

The concept of heating a glove does have merit. However, too much heat is not a good thing. What does work is to apply the proper glove oil or break-in product before the glove is put into a mildly warm oven like on a proofing setting which is usually about 120 degrees fahrenheit, if your oven has that setting. But even then it can be a bit too hot.

What happens then is the pores of the leather open a bit due to the heat, and the conditioning oil or break-in product reduces in viscosity so the leather will absorb the proper moisturizing material more readily.

The trick is the temperature. Most ovens don’t have a low enough setting. So even on its lowest setting it will be too hot for the glove.

You’re much better off with a mild warming, like the small ice chest with the warmed rice bags discussed in the Great Break-in Process for a New Glove blog post.

Of course it matters what you apply to the glove as well. The quality and type of the material you use will have a impact on effectiveness. Read through other blog posts here to find what to avoid and what really works.

The quality Advanced Leather Solutions puts into the it manufacture of the Mitt-Spit product line of baseball care products is an example of what should be used on a baseball glove to improve the leather for the long term life of the glove. Whereas the

Mink, Neatsfoot or Olive Oil on Baseball Gloves --- Here's Why Not.

Mink oil comes from the skin of a mink.   Neatsfoot come from the hoof of a cow and other animals. Olive oil from, well olives. Animal or vegetable oils are never good for leather because of the potential of rancidity.  The oil can turn rancid.

To understand why, here's a short chemistry lesson.   There are two ends of the animal or vegetable oil spectrum: There is Saturated oils on one end and Unsaturated oils on the other.   Saturated oils are really stable, whereas unsaturated oils can be unstable.

There is a scientific method for testing this.  It’s called the Iodine Value (sometimes referred to as Iodine Index).  The higher the iodine value of an oil, the less stable it is, which means more sensitive to oxidation.   Simply put, the more likely to go rancid.  

The Iodine Value of mink oil is between 80 and 95.  Neatsfoot oil runs between 69 - 75. Olive oil is way up there as well at around 85. These are pretty far up that scale. Mitt-Spit glove oil is about 1. The same low rancidity potential exists for Mitt-Spit Break-in. That means virtually no chance of rancidity with Mitt-Spit products.

Mink, olive and neatsfoot oils all have fairly high Iodine Values.  There are 3 other factors necessary.  Exposure to air (oxygen), heat and light. This is why olive oil bottles are generally green (not clear glass), are stored with the cap on tight and supposed to be stored in a dark cool place.

Your baseball glove however is outside in the sun, exposed to air and gets plenty warm.  So your mitt is exposed to all three factors: Air, Heat and Light.  If it's loaded with olive, mink or neatsfoot oil, It doesn't take long for the oil in the glove to go rancid. What does this mean to you?  Anything going rancid in the leather will help deteriorate that leather.  It will make your glove smell and is generally unhealthy. Yuk!

Mitt-Spit products on the other hand is made from an oil that is often found in cosmetics, or even as a food additive.  It's very safe for your mitt too.  As mentioned, Mitt-Spit glove oil and Mitt-Spit Break-in have an iodine value of about 1.  For the sake of your glove,use Mitt-Spit products. If you invest in the correct care products, you’ll never be sorry. Go here to buy Mitt-Spit Products.

Crazy Stuff for Baseball Glove Care

So here's the latest nutty newsflash for baseball glove care...  Old motor oil.  Yup... Some guy swears by it. Hey, I guess it's OK because it's better than putting used motor oil in a land fill and polluting the water.

Come on now.  Where does this stuff come from anyway?  What a bunch of nonsense!

Look, if you want to ruin your glove try some of these hocus-pocus things.  Otherwise, let the guys who know leather provide the right products.  That's what the Mitt-Spit team is all about.

If you have questions about leather care, send us an email or give us a call. We have a deep understanding of leather. You’ll get honest, straight answers to your questions. Try us out. You can contact me directly— Kevin@AdvLeather.com or call us 800-541-5982. Or, go directly to the Mitt-Spit Products to buy the correct products for your glove. You’ll see the difference quality makes.

Shaving cream for your baseball glove care --- really?

Shaving cream?  A baseball glove care solution? Here's the bogus theory.  Shaving cream is good for your mitt because it has lanolin in it.   So the well-meaning but completely wrong idea is that lanolin will help soften your glove.  It doesn't.

Lanolin is a natural product that comes from the skin output (like sweat) of sheep and other wooly animals.  It's natural purpose is to help as a water resistance for the sheep's fleece (wool).  It's sometimes called "wool wax" or "wool grease."   It helps the rain water run off their furry coat, keeping lamb's skin dry.  Great for the lamb, but useless for your baseball mitt.

Hold on...  there is more to the story.  

We're going to talk more about this in another post, but for now understand that shaving cream is alkaline.  And, it means bad news for leather, because leather pH is the opposite of alkaline.  It's acidic.   

And, it leaves a soap film on your mitt.   Soapy films are not good for any skin, including leather.

What does alkaline chemistry do to leather?  It creates a chemical reaction inside the leather that breaks down the internal fiber structure, weakening the leather.  

So, here's the takeaway:

1. Lanolin doesn't soften, it waterproofs.

2. Shaving cream, like most soaps, is alkaline.  It's actually harmful to leather.  

You want to keep your leather mitt in good shape?  Use Mitt-Spit Solutions Conditioner --- a baseball glove oil that lubricates the leather fibers, keeping the leather supple and is pH balanced to the leather.  So, it is actually good for your mitt. Go to Mitt-Spit Products to buy the correct products for your glove. You’ll see the difference quality makes.

A creative use of Mitt-Spit Break-in - put it on new laces before you lace up a glove.

Nate Petty of Magnolia, TX came up with a brilliant idea for using the Mitt-Spit Break-in product when re-lacing. Often the new laces are stiff, sometimes stiffer than the glove leather itself. What Nate discovered is if you apply the Mitt-Spit Break-in product to the laces before you start the lacing project, it makes a lacing job a lot easier. Try it. See if it works for you too. Thanks for the tip Nate. Go to Mitt-Spit Products to buy the correct products for your glove.

Does glove oil plug up the pores of baseball glove leather?

There is a lot written on the internet about baseball glove care.  Much of it is wrong, for example, the clogging of leather pores with conditioning agents.  The general theme is that the "conditioner" blocks the ability of the leather to breath.  So let's take a look at the science of it.  

To answer the question directly --- the right glove oil chemistry does not clog leather pores.  However, a heavy, viscous chemistry can.  For example, Vaseline slathered across a piece of leather will NOT soak in, but just sit on the surface.  All it does is add weight to the glove and block the leather (skin) from breathing.  So,  you end up with a greasy, gloppy mess that does in fact block pores.

A good starting point is to ask: Why does leather need regular glove oil anyway?

Here's some background:  Leather has natural moisturizing agents that have been infused into the leather at the tannery.  This is what makes the leather pliable, not stiff as wood.  A average of 25% of the leather's mass is moisture.  Because leather is porous, it breathes.  So, it loses moisture through evaporation.  As leather loses moisture, it stiffens and actually can shrink (loses mass).  Therefore, it's important for the long term life of glove leather, to keep the leather moisture content at the proper level.  This is accomplished by using a properly chemically engineered glove oil.

What then is the right chemistry for a leather glove?  

A baseball glove oil should have the following attributes:

1.  A softening agent that the leather will absorb is essential.  If it doesn't soak in then it's useless. The glove oil should be absorbed deeply, migrate into the internal leather fibers, not just the surface.

2. Baseball glove oil should be engineered specifically for baseball glove leather, not cross marketed from other intended uses.  There are many different types of leather.  How the leather is tanned (processed) at a tannery determines its characteristics.  The products developed for treating that leather, once in the hands of a consumer, should take that into consideration.

3. It should be made with quality ingredients that will have long lasting, positive effects on leather.

4. Glove oil should be pH balanced to the leather.  If it isn't, then it can actually be harmful, (i.e. saddle soap) break down the leather, shortening the life of the leather.  More on this point in another post.

5. It should be easy to apply and creamy in texture so you can see it as you apply it.  

6. It should NOT leave a sticky or oily residue on the leather.

7. A thin coating of glove oil should dissipate into the leather rapidly.

8. It should leave a smooth, leather-like feel to the glove after it has been applied.

9. It should have a pleasant, new leather aroma. 

These are the attributes Advanced Leather Solutions engineered into Mitt-Spit Glove oil.  With 35 years experience working with leather as a leather restoration company, Advanced Leather Solutions know what's good for leather and what can be harmful.  We understand the chemical engineering behind quality leather care products and have applied this knowledge to Mitt-Spit Solutions, a whole class of products that you can count on for the long term vitality of your baseball glove. Go to Mitt-Spit Products to buy the correct products for your glove.

Great Break-in Process for a New Glove

Once again a great idea comes from our customers.

This is also from Walt H. in the Mobile area.  Using our Mitt-Spit Break-in product on a very stiff A2000 baseball glove, Walt came up with a brilliant strategy for speeding up to break-in process.

Using two socks filled with rice that was warmed up in his microwave oven (about 30 seconds), Walt put one warmed rice-filled sock on the bottom of a small soft-sided insulated cooler.  He applied Mitt-Spit Break-in to the glove and then put the second warmed rice-filled sock into the glove pocket and laid the glove on top of the rice-filled sock already inside the cooler.  Then closed the cooler.  About 3 hours later, he pulled the glove out and was ready to play ball!

So here's how that works.  The break-in oil is very viscous.  So it's loaded with the right ingredients for softening the leather.  Because it's so viscous, it takes a long time to be absorbed by the glove.  However, the gentle warming of the glove with the warmed-up rice -filled socks reduced the viscosity of the critical ingredient in Mitt-Spit Break-in allowing the leather to rapidly absorb this essential ingredient, rendering the glove fully broken in.  Genius!

Thank you Walt for this great idea.

Additional thoughts...  Never put a glove in the microwave directly.  The microwave function warms something up by agitating the water molecules (H2O) in the target.  If you use a microwave to heat food, you know it heats unevenly.  If you use it on a glove, then some areas of the leather will dry out much faster than others.  You risk permanently damaging the leather.  Once damaged, it cannot be recovered.  Whereas the rice-filled sock approach gradually and gently warms uniformly.  go to Mitt-Spit Products to buy the correct products for your glove.

Prepare Your Glove for the Off-Season

Fall is here in the United States.  It’s time to think about doing what’s best to prepare your glove for its winter “hibernation.”  Here are some tips.

1      After a season’s use, it’s a good idea to give your glove a thorough cleaning.  With the Mitt-Spit glove cleaner, generously apply to all surfaces.  If you have the Mitt-Spit cleaning glove, use it.  It’s an excellent way to apply the cleaner as it gives you good finger dexterity to get into all the nook and crannies.  Let the cleaner sit on the glove for a minute or two.  Then, use a soft dry cloth to wipe away to soapy residue.  This will remove the potential for mold or mildew developing.  The Mitt-Split cleaning glove can be reused many times over.  Simply throw it into the washing machine and it will be ready for next season.

2      Apply Mitt-Spit Glove Oil to the glove using a soft cloth, like a micro-fiber towel.  A light coating is all that is necessary.  Be sure to use the right oil.  Products like mink oil or coconut oil have a potential for turning rancid --- Yuck!  Mitt-Spit glove oil will not turn rancid.

3      Put a baseball into the glove pocket and wrap the glove in a soft cloth, or cloth bag. Lightly secure with a rubber-band or the like.

4      Store the glove in a location which is protected from freezing.  So that means, keep the glove indoors for the winter in the northern states.  An inside closet works great.

Do this and your glove with sleep well all winter long and when spring season comes along, you’ll be ready to play ball with a glove the looks and feel fresh and supple. Go to Mitt-Spit Products to buy the correct products for your glove.

Baseball Glove Gurus Love Mitt-Spit

Had a nice conversation with Walt H. of Mobile, AL.  He is semi-retired, spending his time now repairing and restoring baseball gloves.  Walt lives in the sports crazed capital of America, Mobile, AL area where more professional baseball and football players come from per capita than any other place in the country.  People from the Mobile area are serious about baseball.

In one specific instance, Walt has a decades old glove that was heavily soiled and hadn't been conditioned in about forever.  He used the Mitt-Spit system of cleaning and conditioning and reported back that it worked wonders.  He said it was just like what we show in our video demonstration.  Walt is a repeat customer who ordered another full bundle of the Mitt-Spit Cleaner, Conditioner (glove oil) and Break-in products.  It's nice to hear from people who have a passion for what they do and want to use the best baseball glove care system for their work.  Thanks Walt for being a great customer.

If you've used Mitt-Spit products on your glove, we'd love the hear from you.   If you haven't tried Mitt-Spit yet, do your glove a favor.  Join the ranks of satisfied customers.  It's easy.  Place your order today! Go to Mitt-Spit Products to buy.

Microwave your baseball glove - DON'T!

Microwaving your baseball glove.... Simply not a good idea. In fact a terrible idea.

The thing is, what makes the leather of your glove soft and pliable is the moisture content (oils) in the leather.  If the moisture in your glove gets hot in the microwave, it accelerates evaporation causing the leather to dry out. What does that mean?  A stiffer glove, not a softer glove. 

Don’t cook your glove. It will shorten the life of the leather. Instead, add moisture with Mitt-Spit Glove Oil conditioner to soften your glove.  A softer leather makes your ability to catch a ball a lot easier than with a stiffer leather. Think about it. Don’t turn your glove into a hunk of wood. Keep it soft and supple for better ball handling.

It is true a warm baseball glove will absorb Mitt-Spit Glove Oil faster than a cold glove. Warm the glove gradually. For example, put in in a car that is sitting in the sun for a bit. Then apply the Mitt-Spit Glove Oil and it will absorb in more evenly and faster. Go to Mitt-Spit Products to buy the correct products. You’ll notice the difference quality makes.