How to flare a baseball glove?

Flaring a baseball glove refers to the process of widening the opening of the glove to create a larger pocket for catching the ball. Flaring a glove can help improve the player’s ability to catch the ball and increase their confidence on the field. Here are the steps to flare a baseball glove:

  1. Soften the glove: Begin by softening the glove by rubbing a small amount of glove oil or shaving cream onto the leather. This will help loosen up the leather and make it more pliable.
  2. Work the glove: Once the glove is soft, begin working it by opening and closing it repeatedly. This will help loosen up the leather and stretch it out.
  3. Use a mallet: To further stretch the glove, use a mallet or a bat to hit the pocket of the glove. Place a baseball or softball in the pocket to create a target, and then hit the pocket with the mallet or bat. This will help stretch the leather and create a larger pocket.
  4. Bend the fingers: To create a more pronounced flare, bend the fingers of the glove outward. Use your fingers to push the leather outward from the inside of the glove, and then hold it in place for a few seconds.
  5. Repeat the process: Repeat these steps as necessary until the desired level of flare has been achieved. Be careful not to over-flare the glove, as this can cause it to lose its shape and structure.

In summary, flaring a baseball glove involves softening the leather, working the glove, using a mallet to stretch the pocket, and bending the fingers outward to create a larger pocket. With time and practice, a flared glove can help improve your catching ability and make you a more effective player on the field.