Catcher's "Mitt" ?

[mbrown2097]

Had some discussion on this today and wanted some more opinions. Can a catcher wear a standard fielders glove? 1.12 says he MAY wear a mitt. 1.14 says everyone else can wear a glove. I assume that the interpretation then is that the catcher may not wear a mit because of 1.14?

1.12 The catcher may wear a leather mitt not more than thirty-eight inches

1.13 The first baseman may wear a leather glove or mitt not more than twelve

1.14 Each fielder, other than the first baseman or catcher, may use or wear a leather

glove.

Thanks,

Mike

[UmpJM]

mbrown,

Here is what Evans has to say on the question in the JEA:

Customs And Usage: A catcher can legally use a first baseman's glove/mitt since the size specifications are less

than those allowed a catcher's mitt. A first baseman, however, cannot ordinarily use a catcher's mitt because its

specifications are greater than those allowed a first baseman. There could be an exception if the catcher's mitt were

smaller than the "typical" mitt and fit within the restrictions specified in 1.13.

Both catchers and first basemen may wear an ordinary fielder's glove since its specification maximums are less

than either.

JM

[mstaylor]

Can a catcher wear a fielder's glove, no.

[BRUMP]

What catcher would want to sacrifice that protection and wear a fielders glove???

[mstaylor]

That is the purpose of a catcher's mitt, protection. It certainly isn't because it is a wonderful glove to catch pitches and pop-ups with.

[Jocko]

Can a catcher wear a fielder's glove, no.

while I agree, does the rule book mention must or shall?

[renegadewolf]

MLBUM Rule 1.12 Catchers Mitt.

The catcher may not substitute a fielders glove or a first basemans mitt for a catching mitt during the progress of the game or on any individual play. The catcher may use a catchers mitt with a vinyl flourescent piece attached.

So if our catcher starts with a catchers mitt, that's what he wears for the game if I am reading this correctly. I would assume that the catcher could start the game wearing a smaller mitt and "move up" at some point but once he does there would be no going back

[noumpere]

What catcher would want to sacrifice that protection and wear a fielders glove???

In some youth baseball where they dont throw very hard so the protection needed is minimal the better ability to catch is more imprtant. Thats where this question always comes up.

[Rich Ives]

First of all, the use of the word "may" is there to allow any fielder to wear a glove or mitt (as specified). The game was originally played bare handed so the rule was put it to allow a glove or mitt as some purists of the time objected to their use. So the alternative to a glove or mittt is to not wear one at all.

Second: Then the rules go on the specify which type of glove/mitt may be worn at various positions.

Third: In LL at least the catcher MUST wear a catcher's mitt.

[mstaylor]

Rich is correct, I am forever fighting that in MiLL. They want to catch over being protected.