Equipment

1. What equipment does my child need to play Little League?

At minimum, your child will need a baseball glove and boys also will need to wear an athletic supporter with a hard cup. The league provides each team with several bats, batting helmets, and catcher gear. Players can bring their own helmets and catchers equipment if they choose, but are not required to furnish these items themselves.  Each year the League hosts a “Swap Meet” which allows families to utilize cleats and used baseball clothing that have been outgrown and donated by other families (this will be on a first-come, first-served basis).

2. What equipment will my child need before the first practice or game?

Players should arrive at their first practice, ready to play ball with a glove, hat, rubber molded cleats, and practice baseball pants for the older division boys. Boys will also need to wear an athletic supporter with a hard cup. A baseball bag is recommended to transport bats, batting gloves, water bottles, hats, and other items.  Intermediate Division through Big League are allowed to wear metal cleats; however, Majors and below cannot.

3. Are there any uniform supplies my child needs?

A uniform consists of a pair of baseball pants, belt, a baseball jersey, a hat, and a pair of all-in-one baseball socks.  MSJLL will provide each player a team jersey and a team hat.   All players need to provide their own pant, belt and socks as specified by the manager. Unless instructed by the manager, at the end of the season, players are expected to return team jerseys provided by the league.

4. What kind of glove should I get my child?

A quality leather glove is a must and it is recommended to stay away from vinyl and simulated leather gloves that may be cheaper, but tend to cause the player a great deal of frustration.  It is impossible to form a pocket in gloves made of vinyl or simulated leather.  Therefore, the ball tends to pop out when the player attempts to catch it.  check with your manager for the size of the baseball glove.

5. What size bat should I purchase for my child? 

This is a rather complicated question since kids come in all shapes and sizes.  The bottom line is:  (1) the bat must not be too heavy for the child, (2) it should be long enough to cover the plate, and (3) it should be comfortable in your child's hands.  Be sure to check http://www.littleleague.org/learn/equipment/baseballbatinfo.htm to view the list of legal bats that can still be used for games.