Position
Choosing a third base glove
Third base gets the hardest-hit balls with the least reaction time. You want more glove than a middle infielder and more structure than an outfielder.
3 min read
The short version
- Size: 11.5" – 12" for baseball, 12" – 12.5" for fastpitch softball.
- Web: H-web or dual post — strong enough to take a shot without collapsing.
- Pocket: medium depth. Deeper than shortstop, shallower than outfield.
- Leather: heavier hide holds shape against hard contact.
Why the web matters at third
A ball hit down the line arrives before you can square it up, so the glove often takes the impact through the web rather than the palm. A laced H-web or dual post spreads that force and keeps the pocket from folding.
Don't go too big
Third basemen still have to start double plays and make barehand-adjacent quick throws. Past 12" the glove starts to swallow the ball and slow the release.
Where to go next
Want a straight recommendation?
Email Marques@Bushleaguebb.com with the player's age, position and level. Emails are answered by a real person, usually within one business day.