Rawlings' Gold Glove Gamer GG1125G Pro Taper: Just Right for Youngsters

Looking for a new glove for your young infielder or pitcher? Try Rawlings' Gold Glove Gamer GG1125G Pro Taper glove.

The GG1125G Pro Taper glove is an 11.25” glove with a Modified Trap web.

Pro Taper gloves are made for 8- to 11-year-old athletes who play at least 40 games per year.

Rawlings Gear recommends a Pro Taper glove for the athlete who is ready to move into a better glove, but whose hand is still too small for a Rawlings Heart of the Hide, Pro Preferred or Primo glove.

Parents haven't been disappointed. A sampling of the many reviews at RawlingsGear.com sums up their feelings:

“This is a great youth glove. My 10-year-old plays high-level travel baseball, and the break-in time was about five throwing sessions. The Pro Taper is the way to go for a young, growing player. Would recommend this glove for any youth player.”--Lavergne of Cumming, Ga.

“It's a great glove for a 9-14U player, whose hands are smaller and doesn't have a lot of strength in their hands/forearms yet to squeeze a stiffer glove. Perfect size for an infielder or young outfielder. Rawlings did a great job customizing for us, too!”--ChuckT of Annapolis. Md.

“I bought this glove for my son, who is 6 years old. Almost zero break-in time was required. Very soft leather, and it really looks sharp. Perfect for kids, youth or adults with small hands. Excellent value for the price. I have a couple of other gloves of equal quality by other manufacturers and paid almost $50 more.”--airdrummer

Rawlings' Gold Glove Gamer Pro Taper 11.25” glove is also available for left-handed players under model number GG1125G-RH.

For that extra touch, this glove can be engraved or personalized.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to buy the Rawlings GG1125G Pro Taper glove.

Elevate Your Game with Rawlings' Football Kicking Tees

Rawlings' most popular football tees for soccer-style or straightaway kicking are available at RawlingsGear.com.

Rawlings' Kick-Off Tee is a classic kicking tee that is economical and great for teaching beginners.

It is available in 2” (model number KOT2) and 1” (model number KOT1) models.

The 2” kicking tee is perfect for young kickers, who can use the extra elevation to get more lift on the football.

Through high school, kickers are allowed to use a 1” or 2” elevated tee on kickoff. At the college and professional level, kickers use a 1” tee.

Rawlings' 1” Place Kick Tee (model number PKT1) is a block-style tee made for placement kicks.

This tee block is ideal for the high school player when kicking extra points and field goals.

Through high school, kickers are allowed to use an elevated placement kicking tee. Once at the college level, kickers can no longer use a placement kicking tee.

Both tees are for right- or left-footed kickers.

In addition to tees, Rawlings Gear carries a wide assortment of football accessories, including side and neck protectors, mouth guards and braces.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to buy your Rawlings kicking tees and other football accessories.

Unpack and Play with Rawlings’ Gold Glove Gamer GG601G

Take Rawlings' Gold Glove Gamer 12.75” glove straight from the package to the playing field.

This glove (model number GG601G) is 90 percent broken in from the factory, making it practically game-ready the first time you use it.

"Great value and a great glove. Remarkable how it came basically usable right out of the box. Very happy and would recommend!!!" praised Jayj in an online review at RawlingsGear.com.

"Pretty nice, especially for the price. I bought this glove to have a back-up glove. It looks really nice and I used it right out of the box. It took no time to break in and after one practice it feels even better than my ‘gamer.’ A HUGE thanks!" reviewer LaRose wrote of his glove.

The Gold Glove Gamer 12.75” glove is made for outfielders and is built with a Trap-Eze web.

Rawlings' Gold Glove Gamer series features pro patterns, pro grade laces and pro soft leather. The super-soft Gold Glove leather is from the top 15 percent of the hide and is an oil-tanned, tumbled leather.

This glove is also available for left-handed players under model number GG601G-RH.

For that extra touch, this glove can be engraved or personalized.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to buy your Rawlings Gold Glove Gamer 12.75” glove.

Show Off Your Star in a Rawlings Frame

Put your all-star's photo on display in a personalized Rawlings' picture frame.

RawlingsGear.com carries frames for baseball/softball, basketball, soccer and football.

Each wood frame features space to engrave your player's name and number, the event, the date—whatever words you would use to mark the season or the moment!

Frames have a 4x6” custom-cut opening.

Look for these model numbers at RawlingsGear.com:

• Baseball/Softball (model number FRAME-BSBL)
• Football (model number FRAME-FTBL)
• Basketball (model number FRAME-BSKTBL)
• Soccer (model number FRAME-SCR)

Rawlings Gear also carries Rawlings' Heart of the Hide Leather Photo Frame (model number R751). This 4x6” frame has the Rawlings logo stamped into the leather, making it perfect for any sports fan.

Share memories that last a lifetime with Rawlings' picture frames.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to buy your Rawlings leather or wood sports frames.

Catchers Go Crazy for Rawlings' Newest Mitt

Rawlings Gear customers are making Rawlings' newest fast-pitch catcher's mitt a bestseller.

The REVO SOLID CORE 550 Fast Pitch Series Catcher's Mitt (model number 5SCCM) features a revolutionary new design that improves the fit of the glove to your hand, enhances your grip and allows for better control of the glove, making it the catcher's choice.

This 34” mitt is made with a laceless heel and pocket with Rawlings' Easy Break design, which enables the glove to close easily and break in quickly.

The REVO thumb-to-little-finger close creates a deep pocket that works best for the player who catches one-handed.

The mitt also features the Single Post web, a stretchable web that forms a secure pocket that helps the ball stick, not bounce.

Gloves in the REVO SOLID CORE series are player specific. Select your glove by your position and preference.

There's a glove for every fast-pitch player in the REVO SOLID CORE™ 550 series.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to buy your Rawlings' REVO SOLID CORE Catcher’s Mitt.

Get a Great Price on Rawlings' Gold Glove Gamer GG204G

Rawlings' Gold Glove Gamer 11.5” glove is a great glove at a great price.

This glove (model number GG204G) features a pro pattern, pro grade laces and pro soft leather.

It is made with a Modified Trap-Eze web, a strong web that's perfect for infielders to snag the ball.

All Gold Glove Gamer leather gloves are made from the top 15 percent of the hide. With a super-soft, game-ready feel and full-grain finger linings, these gloves are both comfortable and functional.

Rawlings Gear customers have reported satisfaction with the glove and the price.

In a recent review, JTDad wrote: "My son just turned 11 and is a travel player. I just bought him this glove for his birthday, and it's a great value. After two practices, the glove was broken in. He said it has a great feel and fits his hand nicely. ... I have done a lot of research, you can't find this quality for this price."

Angelsfan seconded those thoughts: "I am a collegiate player who doesn't like to spend a lot of money, and this glove is the best for that. It is not the Heart of the Hide or the Pro Preferred, but for its price you will not find a better glove."

Rawlings' Gold Glove Gamer 11.5” glove is also available for left-handed players under model number GG204G-RH.

For that extra touch, this glove can be engraved or personalized.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to buy your Rawlings Gold Glove Gamer 11.5” glove.

Own First Base with Rawlings' Pro Preferred 2-Tone Mitt

Attention first basemen: Don't let another throw get by you; get Rawlings' Pro Preferred 2-Tone Baseball Glove.

Rawlings' Pro Preferred 2-Tone Baseball Glove (model number PROSDCT2T) is a 13” mitt that features a Single Post web. This stretchable web forms a secure pocket that makes the ball stick, not bounce.

The glove also features a Double Ca-Thug style, which allows you to mold the end of the glove to scoop the ball.

In a recent review on RawlingsGear.com, sammans of Appleton, Wis., praised the mitt: "This glove has gone through three college years and is still working great. It has stayed stiff where it needs to be and soft in the pocket."

Jmo7 is also happy with the mitt: "It is a very good glove. I was able to catch with it pretty good as soon as I got it. I like it because it's stiff but I can still squeeze it."

Rawlings' Pro Preferred line is made with supple Kip leather that provides a smooth look and feel. The Pittards® performance sheepskin lining wicks away moisture and sweat to keep your hand dry and allows the glove to last many seasons.

The Pro Preferred 2-Tone Baseball Glove is also available left-handed players (model number PROSDC2T-RH).

For that extra touch, this glove can be engraved or personalized.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to buy your Rawlings Pro Preferred 2-Tone first baseman's mitt.

Rawlings Scorebooks for Baseball, Softball and Basketball

All the training in the world doesn't matter during the game if you don't have a way to keep score.

That's why Rawlings Gear carries scorebooks for baseball, softball and basketball.

For baseball and softball, Rawlings' Deluxe System-17 Scorebook (model number 17SBDLX) is loaded with statistical tools and extra features. Also known as “The Big Book,” this scorebook is 11” x 14”, has a strong backing board and includes extra writing room for each batter.

The System-17 Scorebook (model number 17SB) offers a simple and straightforward system of scoring. It has room for 20 games, each with space for 9 innings, 17 players and 2 substitutes per player. Its versatile, easy-to-learn system is suitable for virtually any league and every level of play.

A great companion to the System-17 Scorebook is Rawlings' System-17 Line-Up Book (model number 17LB). This vinyl book is just the right size to hold Rawlings' line-up cards and includes a Rawlings pen. It includes 12 4-part carbonless forms with room for 17 players and 17 substitutes per form.

For basketball, the Mark V Scorebook (model number MARKV) is comprehensive and easy to use. It has room for 15 players and 30 games.

Read previous articles in our News section at RawlingsGear.com.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to buy your Rawlings scorebooks and other accessories.

Break Down Your Swing with Rawlings 5-Tool Training Tees

Big League hitters don’t just happen; they are developed over years of practice.

Last year, Rawlings introduced the Pro Tee and the Travel Tee. This year, Rawlings has designed three new training tees:

The Multi Tee (model number 5TMULTITEE) allows you to develop every angle of your swing. Two connected tees give you 360-degree hitting to improve your hitting for power and average. This heavy duty rubber tee can be easily adjusted from 20 inches to 38 inches high.

The 5 Position Tee (model number 5POSITIONTEE) offers you five hitting positions. This tee will help you learn how to hit the ball across all parts of the plate. It can be adjusted from 20 inches to 36 inches high.

The Quick Tee (model number QUICKTEE) is a light-weight, durable tee that can be broken down quickly and used for hitting virtually anywhere. This tee can be adjusted from 27 inches to 47 inches high, higher than any of Rawlings' other 5-Tool Training tees.

Rawlings' 5-Tool Training Program focuses on improving the essential tools of baseball performance: fielding, throwing, hitting for average, hitting for power and running speed.

Other 5-Tool products for improving hitting are the following:

The Pro Tee (model number PROTEE) is the most durable hitting tee on the market. It has a weight-balanced bottom for superior stability and adjusts from 21 inches to 36 inches high.

The Travel Tee (model number TRAVLTEE) is made for training on the go. It assembles and breaks down quickly and easily. Like the Pro Tee, it can be adjusted from 21 inches to 36 inches high.

Training tees and bats are also available as part of bundled packages that focus on all areas of the 5-Tool Training Program.

Every 5-Tool Training product includes drills and instructions to help you improve your baseball performance. The program was developed by Rawlings and Ripken Baseball.

Visit RawlingsGear.com contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) for more information on training tees.

Rawlings' Creates a New Glove Just for Fast-Pitch First Basemen

Now fast-pitch first basemen can find a mitt that matches the speed of their game.

Rawlings has introduced the REVO SOLID CORE 550 Fast Pitch Series 1st Base Mitt (model number 5SCFB).

REVO SOLID CORE technology has improved the fit of the glove to your hand and enhanced your grip, allowing for better control of the glove. The laceless heel and pocket, along with the Easy Break design, enable these gloves to close easier and break in quicker than traditional gloves.

Gloves in the REVO SOLID CORE series are player specific. Select your glove by your position and preference.

The 550 Series 1st Base Mitt features the Single Post Double Bar web, a stretchable web that forms a secure pocket. At 13", this glove is designed just for the first basemen.

In a recent review at RawlingsGear.com, justacollegekid praised the 550 Series 1st Base Mitt: "I played college softball and have been looking for a sturdy replacement that can take a beating of practicing for hours every day of the week. This glove feels great and performs up to what I consider a 'standard' for any kind of equipment used by college athletes and beyond. Even better was the price. It's hard to find a good quality with an awesome price...good job Rawlings!"

This 1st base mitt is also available for lefties (model number 5SCFB-RH).

There's a glove for every fast-pitch player in the REVO SOLID CORE™ 550 series.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) for more information on Rawlings' new REVO SOLID CORE 1st Base Mitt.

Pick a Best Seller: Rawlings' Pro Preferred 2-Tone Glove

Rawlings' Pro Preferred 11.25' 2-Tone Baseball Glove is a best seller at RawlingsGear.com.

This Pro Preferred glove (model number PROS12IC2T) is made from the top-quality leather Rawlings is known for—Kip skin leather and Bruciato color leather. These supple leathers allow amateurs and pros alike to break in the glove to their preference, and the glove will keep its shape.

The palm lining features Pittards® performance sheepskin that is soft to the touch and wicks moisture, keeping your hand dry for better control.

USA tanned lacing and 100 percent wool padding allow you to form the perfect pocket.

The glove features a Pro I web, a smaller, lighter web that is perfect for second basemen and shortstops who need to get the ball out of their gloves quickly.

“For a second baseman, this is the perfect glove. The leather is extremely soft for an awesome feel, yet at the same time it is very durable. I would recommend this to any middle infielder, hands down,” wrote Ryan of Kennesaw, Ga., in an online review at RawlingsGear.com.

Jihan of Los Angeles looks at his glove as an investment: “I bought this glove in black five years ago and its still one of the best investments. I still can't wait to play catch with it. It's a great glove,” he wrote.

For that extra touch, this glove can be engraved or personalized.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to buy your Pro Preferred 11.25” 2-Tone Baseball Glove.

Rawlings' Belts and Socks Complete the Look

Put the finishing touch on your uniform with Rawlings' belts and socks.

Rawlings' baseball belt (model number ABELT) features Pro stretch nylon with a nickel-plated buckle and a leather tab that has “Rawlings” embossed on the strap. This belt adjusts from 26" to 40" and is available in black, bright orange, Columbia blue, dark green, kelly green, light gold, maroon, navy, purple, royal, scarlet and teal.

Rawlings offers a one-size-fits-all football belt (model number FBELT) that is made out of 1" Polyester web with a reinforced D-ring for durability. It is available in light gold, maroon, navy, royal, scarlet and silver.

Rawlings' solid color all sport socks (model number ARCHCRA) offer support and comfort where you need it the most. They are made from 76 percent Acrylic, 15 percent Nylon and 9 percent Spandex and are available in black, Columbia blue, dark green, light gold, maroon, navy, royal, scarlet and white.

Use this sizing guide to find the right socks for you or your athlete:

Shoe Size: X-Small 9-12, Small 13-3, Medium 4-9, Large 9-12
Sock Size: X-Small 5-6, Small 7-8, Medium 9-11, Large 10-13

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to purchase your socks and belts for baseball, softball or football.

Rawlings' GGNP5G Gold Glove Gamer Replaces GGNP5B Gold Glove

Rawlings has replaced its Gold Glove model number GGNP5B with the Gold Glove Gamer model number GGNP5G.

At 11-3/4" and made with a shallow pocket, this glove is primarily an infielder’s glove, especially for those on the left side of the infield. It works best for the third basemen.

Like the Gold Glove, the Gold Glove Gamer features a Pro I web.

The Pro I web is a single post web that allows the player to better shape the pocket.

Rawlings' Gold Glove Gamer series gloves use pro quality materials and designs including authentic Rawlings Pro patterns and high-quality U.S.-made Pro grade laces. These gloves feature a new Pro soft leather that allows for a quicker, easier break-in and full-grain finger linings to maximize comfort and durability.

Jakey recently wrote an online review at RawlingsGear.com about his glove: "I would recommend using this glove at third base, but it would work at any infield position. Once broken in, the glove (as with most all Gold Gloves) is wide for fielding those ground balls, fast or slow. The laces are also a big part of this glove. They are not dry and have somewhat of a 'stretch' to them. This glove snags up the ball and keeps it from fumbling out; the grip is great. Overall I would suggest this glove to anyone who wants a great durable glove that won't wear out after one season."

The Gold Glove Gamer model number GGNP5G is not available in a left-handed model.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) for information on your Rawlings Gold Glove Gamer GGNP5G glove.

Rawlings Makes Equipment Bags for the Whole Team

Looking for a team bag, a bag for your balls or a bag for your computer and paperwork? Rawlings Gear has them all.

The Team Bag (model number TEAMB1) is a large bag that can hold up to six bats in the bottom compartment and has an easily accessible large compartment on top. This bag can also be used for other sports, holding up to five basketballs or footballs. It is available in black.

Made for football players, Rawlings' Football Equipment Bag (model number FBBAG) makes transporting up to 12 full-size footballs quick and easy. This bag has insulated dividers and a side pocket for extra storage. The durable ballistic nylon bottom and padded adjustable shoulder straps provide durability and comfort. Extended side straps allow you to carry this bag like a backpack.

A different kind of bag is Rawlings' Ball Bag (model number RBALLB). It is shaped like a baseball bucket and can hold up to 5 dozen baseballs. It has two accessory pockets on the outside and has a heavy duty molded bottom. It is available in black.

Rawlings' Advisory Staff bag (model number ASBC1) is ideal for coaches, dads and team managers. This bag has many compartments to keep you organized—a protected compartment for your laptop, internal dividers for files or paperwork, a water bottle pocket, a cell phone pocket, an MP3 player pocket with headphone port and more. It is available in black.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to order your new Rawlings equipment bag.

Rawlings' Leather Wallets Make a Gift Worth Holding On To

Get a leather wallet from Rawlings Gear for a frugal friend and you just might find the top-quality Rawlings leather has him reaching for it more often.

RawlingsGear.com carries three wallets made from Player Preferred leather.

The Casual Pebble Grain Leather Slim Wallet (model number C105) has six credit card slots and a slot for cash.

The black Pebble Grain Money Clip Wallet (model number C114) features an antique brass money clip with four credit card slots and a cash slot.

The tan Pebble Grain Leather Business Card Holder (model number C103) has two business card slots with room for 20 cards on each side.

Hawkyball recently wrote an online review at RawlingsGear.com about the business card holder: "This item arrived on time and in good condition. It holds my business cards securely, is nice in appearance, but is not too formal looking. I also like that the leather 'smells like baseball.' This is a nice business product for baseball lovers, or for those who simply want the protective abilities of leather without a pretentious look."

RawlingsGear.com also carries one wallet made from Heart of the Hide leather.

The Smooth Leather Business Card Holder (model number R103) has two business card slots with room for 20 cards on each side.

Limited quantities are available.

RawlingsGear.com also carries leather products such as portfolios, bags, card cases, luggage tags, key chains, coasters, travel kits and backpacks.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to purchase your Rawlings leather items.

Get Game Ready with a Rawlings Glove Break-In Kit

Rawlings Gear wants to help you get your glove “game ready” the fast and easy way—with a Rawlings Glove Break-In Kit.

The break-in kit is made for players at all levels of play and can help you break in, shape or restore any leather baseball or softball glove.

The Rawlings Glove Break-In Kit includes:

• A special Rawlings glove strap that stretches lightly around your glove.
• An oversize plastic ball that shapes and forms the glove pocket.
• A deluxe hydro applicator sponge to apply Rawlings' Glovolium glove treatment
• A 4-oz. flip-top bottle of Glovolium glove treatment (model number G25GIIBP). The Glovolium formula contains a nonpetroleum, nontoxic liquid emulsion that cleans, preserves and softens.

The kit has received many positive reviews from RawlingsGear.com customers.

"I have used many different things to break in gloves (traditional oils, creams, foams), but this product is among the best I have used. The kit includes everything you need to break in a glove with out spending the money to buy everything separately. Overall great product," wrote Ryan of Kennesaw, Ga.

"This really helped me break in my new glove. After using it a couple times it was completely broken in. Great if you need to soften up your mitt," wrote friend2377.

Read our previous articles on how to break in and care for your Rawlings glove in our News section at RawlingsGear.com.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) for information on the Rawlings Glove Break-In Kit.

Spark Your Child's Interest With the Rawlings Lightning Pink Glove

Watch your daughter's face light up every time she catches a ball with Rawlings' Lightning pink glove.

The Lightning glove has sensors that light up on ball impact, making it a fun way to teach catching the ball.

The 8-1/2” style works well for children ages 3-6, and the price is unbeatable.

Look for model number LS85P.

One satisfied customer wrote an online review at RawlingsGear.com.

"I purchased this glove for my 5-year-old niece (for her birthday). She doesn't play baseball, but when she received it she loved it. The fact that it is pink and lights up are a bonus, and Lucy is looking forward to playing catch with her dad and new glove!" wrote Lori of Charleston, S.C.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to buy the Lightning pink glove.

Stay Protected and Stylish With Rawlings' Coolflo Batting Helmet

One of Rawlings Gear's best-selling items is the Coolflo batting helmet.

This Coolflo helmet features a high-impact ABS shell with a metallic finish.

The helmet is pre-drilled for face guards, and its dual ear flaps are NOCSAE approved.

It's made with moisture-wicking, anti-bacterial Pro-Dri Plus lining.

Look for model number CFBHM.

Coolflo helmets routinely receive top reviews from customers at Rawlings Gear.

"Our kids loved the helmets. In the second game we used them, we had the same player get hit twice in the helmet while stealing second. He was able to get up and go to third after the ball bounced all the way to center field. I think that is a good testimony to their safety," wrote BBFANATIC.

"Bought these helmets for a 9-year-old all-star baseball team, and they have really held up to their description. Durable, can handle direct hits from baseballs no matter where on the helmet and look nice on the field. Rawlings Gear also has great customer service. Keep up the good work!!" wrote 1baseballmom.

The one-size-fits-all design (sizes 6-1/2 to 7-1/2) contains 15 individual air vents to keep you or your athlete cool and dry. A channel in back makes for a comfortable fit for ponytails and braids.

The Coolflo helmet is available in black, cardinal, dark green, maroon, navy, orange, purple, royal, scarlet, silver, Vegas gold and white.

Rawlings Gear also carries an attachable chin strap and face guard.

Rawlings is the official supplier of helmets to Major League Baseball.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) for more information on Rawlings' Coolflo batting helmets.

Train With the Rawlings Ball That's Made for Pitching Machines

Take batting practice like the pros with Rawlings' 5-Tool MLB pitching machine baseballs.

5-Tool MLB pitching machine baseballs are the official training ball of Major League Baseball, and are designed specifically for use in pitching machines.

The balls feature a full-grain leather cover with a wound cork and rubber center.

Kevlar-stitched seams create the incredible durability that allows these baseballs to hold up against the compressing action of pitching machines.

WhitefordRec wrote an online review at RawlingsGear.com: "These are the best machine pitch balls on the market for the money spent. They hold up well with all types of machines. You do not get the extreme wear that you get with other brands. I have bought over 100 of these balls since finding them, and they hold up for several seasons."

5-Tool MLB pitching machine baseballs are also great for breaking in bats.

Baseballs can be purchased individually or in dozens.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) for information on Rawlings pitching machine baseballs.

Invest in Your Glove With Rawlings Primo Glove Butter

Primo Glove Butter may be named after Rawlings' finest gloves, but it's perfect for conditioning any top-quality leather glove.

Rawlings Primo Glove Butter is made from 100 percent natural ingredients.

The blend begins with shea butter imported from Africa, known for its moisturizing properties. Harvested from the nuts of the karite tree, shea contains vitamins A and E to help heal dry leather and block the sun’s UV rays.

Other Primo emollients include pomace olive oil, avocado oil and even a bit of beeswax.

A special secret ingredient (first discovered by centuries-old European leatherworkers) helps create a distinctive finish not available in any other glove oil.

To apply Rawlings Primo Glove Butter to your best glove, warm the butter in your fingers and massage it into the leather.

Be sure to apply it to the entire surface of your glove—the pocket, webbing, fingers, lacing, everything.

Don't forget to apply some inside your glove to keep the leather supply through and through.

Reapply Primo Glove Butter at your discretion to keep your glove in top condition.

A cotton cloth is also helpful to buff the leather after application. Rawlings recommends a soft, 100 percent cotton flannel.

Care for your glove like the investment that it is—don't forget the Primo Glove Butter.

Read our previous articles on how to break in and care for your Rawlings gloves in our News section at RawlingsGear.com.

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) to buy your Rawlings Primo Glove Butter.

Fun Facts: Why Is It Called a Fungo Bat?

For many ballplayers, fielding practice is not a fun go. So why do coaches use a fungo bat?

There are a few possible ways the word “fungo” came to be used in baseball:

• Old English “fonge,” which meant to catch.
• German “fungen,” to catch.
• Scottish “fung,” to pitch, toss or fling.
• An old street baseball game in which the hitter would toss the ball and hit it, and on each hit yell "one goes, two goes..." and if someone caught it on a fly the hitter would yell "fun go" and be replaced by the person who made the catch.
• "Fungoble," which meant something that could be substituted for something else, and came to be the name of the game in which a special bat was substituted for a regular bat.

No matter where the word comes from, coaches can put the fun in fielding practice by following these fungo tips:

1. Choose a bat for your needs. Fungo bats are lighter than regular baseball bats and come in composite, aluminum and wood varieties. The idea is to find a bat that you can swing repeatedly without getting tired. In addition, pick one with a comfortable grip to avoid blisters.
2. Place your bat on your back shoulder and toss the baseball up with your front hand. Toss the ball high and far enough away from the body so you don't get jammed. Grab the handle with your free hand bringing the bat back a few inches. Hit fly balls at shoulder level, grounders at chest level and line drives at waist level.
3. See the baseball as being divided horizontally. During practice, aim at the lower half whenever you want to add some loft to your fly balls. Conversely, aim at the top of the baseball when hitting grounders.
4. Let the bat do all of the work and relax when hitting. As a coach, you know how tension can negatively influence performance. To be consistent, your swing should be confident and free of tension.
5. Perfect your swing. Hit each ball with purpose and visualize where you would like it to go or gather some players after practice for extra work. The more you hit, the better your fungos will be.

Rawlings carries three fungo bats:

• Performance Alloy -14 Fungo Bat (model number CF4)
• Composite Wood -15 Fungo Bat (model number 114MPC)
• Professional Wood Fungo Bat (model number 114AP)

Visit RawlingsGear.com or contact a Rawlings Gear Customer Care representative at (866) 678-GEAR(4327) for more information on fungo bats.