Glove:

• Size: Get a bigger glove than you think, even for young players. We recommend a minimum 10.0"-10.5” gloves, even for young Shetland players. Players will start using larger gloves as they become more comfortable catching. Stronger players will quickly advance to 11.0"-11.5" gloves. Pinto players and above (8+ years old) will typically have gloves that are 11" and larger.
  
• Make sure the glove is well broken in or conditioned, so the player is able to squeeze it.  The glove needs a good pocket.
• Parents should also have a glove at home because you'll be practicing regularly with your player!  11.5"-12.5" gloves are great for most adults.
  

Cleats:

• Cleats are recommended for all divisions.
• Soccer cleats are fine for the Shetland division. Note: while soccer cleats are fine for baseball, baseball cleats ARE NOT allowed in soccer as the toe cleat in baseball cleats is dangerous for soccer.
• It is recommended that Pinto division players and above use proper baseball cleats. The toe cleat and ankle protection in real baseball cleats are helpful for these older divisions.
• Rubber-soled/rubber-cleated shoes are permitted. Metal cleats are prohibited for all divisions except Pony 14U.
  

Batting Helmet:

• Each player should have their own baseball batting helmet for fit and sanitary reasons.
• The use of face masks and/or jaw guards on protective head gear is not required, but it is recommended for additional safety, especially in older divisions with live pitching (Mustang and above). Face masks and jaw guards should be factory installed. 

Cup:

• A protective cup is required for all male players starting at Pinto division and above.  Female players are not required to wear a protective cup.

Uniform:

• Mission Bay Youth Baseball will provide each player with a team jersey and hat.
• Players are responsible for purchasing their own pants, belts, and socks. Please hold off on purchasing baseball pants, belt, and socks until team uniform colors have been determined. Your manager/head coach will provide details about the uniform colors and recommended color for pants, belt, and socks.

Bat:

All bats must have the USA Baseball licensing stamp on it to be used in PONY baseball.

• Tee Ball bats may be used in the Shetland division (typically 24”-26” bats). Regular baseball bats must be used starting in the Pinto divisions and above (typically 27” to 42” bats). 
  
  Pay attention to
  1. the weight of the bat
  2. the length of the bat
  3. the barrel diameter of the bat
  
  
• 2 5/8" is the maximum barrel size allowed on a USA Bat and most stronger players will want those big barrel bats. 
  
• For the youngest players, you may want to go as light as possible, but as the kids approach Pinto age they should be ready to swing a 27" bat or bigger (typically 17oz or more). There are very few bats shorter than 27" that are legal in Pinto baseball. 
  
• The key is to have a bat that a player can consistently swing level. If a bat is too heavy, the barrel with drop and it will be harder for the player to make consistent contact.
• Regardless, the bat must have the USA Baseball licensing stamp.  More details can be found at usabat.com.