Are you ready to upgrade your baseball skills with something cool and unique? Let’s talk about the Pencil Glove — a tool that’s changing the game for both young and pro players. Whether you’re picking up a glove for the first time or looking to add a new twist to your training, the Pencil Glove has something for everyone.
What is a Pencil Glove?
A Pencil Glove isn’t made of pencils! It’s a special training glove that looks like a regular baseball glove but is much thinner and lighter. It’s designed to improve your catching, fielding, and hand-eye coordination. Think of it as a super skinny glove that helps you focus on technique — not on trapping the ball perfectly every time.
Pencil Gloves are mostly used during practice. They force you to get your glove in the right spot and use two hands to catch or scoop the ball. It’s all about mastering the basics with style!
Who Should Use the Pencil Glove?
Great question! The cool thing about the Pencil Glove is that it’s for anyone who wants to get better at baseball. From Little League stars to college athletes, and even pros — everyone can benefit.
Here’s who it’s great for:
- Youth players who are learning to field cleanly
- High school athletes looking to refine their fielding
- College and pro players who want an edge
- Coaches who believe in perfect practice
Why is It Called a Pencil Glove?
It got its name because it simulates the idea of writing — detailed and precise. Like writing neatly with a pencil, catching with this glove helps your hands learn fine movements.
And let’s be honest — it’s a fun name!
Key Benefits of Using a Pencil Glove
Using a Pencil Glove isn’t just trendy. It can truly change the way you play. Check out some of the main reasons it’s popular:
- Improves glove control: You need to be accurate to catch the ball with it.
- Builds soft hands: Helps you learn to absorb the ball instead of stabbing at it.
- Teaches two-hand catching: You can’t rely on the glove alone — you need your throwing hand to secure the ball.
- Makes regular gloves feel easy: After training with a Pencil Glove, your full glove feels like magic.
Plus, it keeps practices interesting and fun! Every player loves trying something different that boosts their game.
How to Use It
There’s no special technique needed to use a Pencil Glove — just wear it during drills instead of your normal glove. Use it for fielding ground balls, quick toss drills, or soft toss practice. The secret is to do everything you normally would — just with a bit more focus.
Here are fun ways to use your Pencil Glove:
- Ground Ball Drills: Have a partner roll grounders to you. Focus on getting low and using both hands.
- Quick Hands: Stand close to a coach or teammate and catch rapid tosses without flinching.
- Wall Ball: Bounce tennis balls off a wall and catch with your Pencil Glove for solo practice.
Different Types of Pencil Gloves
Not every Pencil Glove is the same. Some are flat paddles made of leather or synthetic material. Others look like mini versions of a real glove. Here are some of the common types:
- Flat Pancake Mitt: No pocket, perfect for quick transfers.
- Mini Webbed Glove: Slightly more shape, helps with catching cleaner.
- Pro Trainer Gloves: High-quality leather, often used at advanced levels.
Each type has its own feel. Youth players often start with flat versions, while college players might use detailed trainer gloves.
Best Drills to Try with a Pencil Glove
Want to know how elite players are training? Try these proven drills with your Pencil Glove:
1. Two-Hand Toss Drill
Stand 3 to 5 feet away from your partner. Toss soft balls back and forth. Focus on catching and transferring the ball quickly. It’s great for infielders.
2. Short Hop Challenge
Have a friend throw you short hops on purpose. Get low and scoop them up while using both hands. You’ll learn timing and bounce control.
3. Barehand-to-Pencil Glove Drill
Practice fielding five grounders barehanded, then five with the Pencil Glove. Switch back and forth. You’ll feel sharper every round.
4. Reaction Tennis Ball Drill
Tennis balls bounce wild! Toss or bounce tennis balls off a wall and catch with the Pencil Glove. You’ll notice your hands get faster and softer.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of It
Want to level up fast? Here’s how to squeeze every drop of training out of your Pencil Glove:
- Use it for 10-15 minutes every practice.
- Go slow if you’re just starting. Focus on mechanics.
- Switch back to your normal glove afterward to feel the difference.
- Record your drills and watch how your hands move.
- Stay consistent. The more you use it, the more you grow.
Pencil Glove for Coaches
If you’re a coach, a Pencil Glove is a great tool for helping players:
- It simplifies your drills.
- Keeps players focused on good habits.
- Acts as a visual reminder: “Use both hands!”
- Makes warm-ups more valuable.
Many youth coaches give every player a turn with the Pencil Glove, even during pregame warmups!
Buying a Pencil Glove
You don’t need to spend a fortune. Pencil Gloves are usually affordable, and there are lots of choices online or in sports stores. You can even find them in fun colors or add your team’s logo.
Look for these features:
- Durable but lightweight leather
- Good stitching and comfy fit
- Sized for both youth and adults
- Adjustable straps are a bonus
Still unsure? Read reviews or ask your coach what they recommend.
Final Thoughts
The Pencil Glove is more than a fun gadget — it’s a golden tool for serious improvement. It’s like going back to basics, but with a fresh and exciting twist. Whether you’re just starting your baseball journey or already competing at high levels, this glove will sharpen your skills and build your confidence.
So grab your glove, hit the field, and train like a pro — one pencil glove catch at a time!