
( Brand: Franklin ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 22353L ), ( Model: 22353L 9.5 ), ( Size: 9.5 ), ( Color: Green ), ( Lining Material: Leather ), ( Glove Cuff Type: Slip-on ), ( Vintage: No ), ( Handedness: Left ), ( Type: Glove ), ( Style: 5 Finger ), ( Sport/activity: Baseball ), ( Country Of Origin: China ), ( UPC: 025725400010 )
The **Franklin 22353L MeshTek 9.5 Youth Baseball T-Ball Glove** is a meticulously crafted, high-performance glove designed specifically to meet the needs of young players transitioning from tee-ball to competitive baseball. Engineered with a **9.5-inch pocket depth**, this glove strikes the perfect balance between agility and coverage, allowing youth players to comfortably field ground balls, catch fly balls, and secure throws with confidence. The **MeshTek web** is a standout feature, offering an optimal blend of durability and flexibility its open-weave design enhances breathability while maintaining structural integrity, ensuring the glove retains its shape season after season. The **lightweight leather** construction, likely made from premium cowhide, provides a soft, supple feel that molds to the player s hand over time, reducing fatigue during extended practice sessions or games. The **closed-back design** offers added stability and support, making it ideal for young players still developing their throwing mechanics, while the **adjustable wrist strap** with a secure buckle ensures a snug, customizable fit that won t slip or loosen mid-game. Whether used for practice drills, tee-ball play, or early-season training, this glove is built to inspire young athletes with its combination of comfort, durability, and performance, helping them build essential fielding skills with ease.
The **Franklin 22353L MeshTek 9.5 Youth Baseball T-Ball Glove (LHT)** is a popular choice for young players, particularly those transitioning from tee-ball to live-ball play. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
---
### **Pros**
1. **Durable Construction**
The glove features Franklin s **MeshTek material**, a blend of synthetic leather and mesh that balances durability and flexibility. This material resists wear better than traditional leather-only gloves, making it suitable for frequent use by youth players who may not always handle the glove gently.
2. **Lightweight Design**
Weighing in at a reasonable weight for a youth glove, the **9.5-inch size** is ideal for players aged 6 9 (or those with smaller hands). The lighter weight reduces fatigue during practice and games, allowing for better maneuverability.
3. **Deep Pocket and Webbing**
The **modified trapeze web** provides a secure pocket for catching fly balls and line drives, which is crucial for t-ball players who often deal with slower pitches. The deep pocket also helps with catching ground balls more easily.
4. **Adjustable Closure**
The **LHT (Left Hand Throw)** model includes a **hook-and-loop strap closure**, which allows for a snug fit without needing to remove the glove. This is convenient for quick adjustments during games and helps prevent the glove from slipping off during play.
5. **Affordable Price**
Compared to high-end youth gloves, this model offers good value for its features. It s a cost-effective option for parents looking for a reliable glove without breaking the bank.
6. **Easy to Break In**
Unlike heavy leather gloves that require extensive breaking in, the MeshTek material softens relatively quickly with use, making it ready for game-day performance sooner.
7. **Good for Transition Players**
Many youth players move from tee-ball to live-ball baseball, and this glove s **medium depth** (not too shallow for tee-ball, not too deep for live-ball) makes it versatile for this transition.
8. **Brand Reputation**
Franklin is a well-known brand in youth sports equipment, offering reliable products that are trusted by coaches and parents. Their gloves are often recommended for beginners.
---
### **Cons**
1. **MeshTek Material Limitations**
While durable, the **MeshTek material is not as soft or premium-feeling as full-grain leather**. Over time, it may develop a slightly rough texture, which some players or parents might find less comfortable than a leather glove.
2. **Not Ideal for Advanced Players**
This glove is best suited for **beginner to intermediate youth players**. More advanced players (or those transitioning to live-ball baseball) may eventually outgrow it or prefer a deeper pocket or stiffer leather for better control.
3. **Limited Customization**
Unlike some high-end gloves, this model doesn t offer extensive customization options (e.g., different web styles or color choices). The design is straightforward and functional rather than stylish.
4. **Potential for Stretching**
The hook-and-loop strap can sometimes loosen over time, requiring occasional readjustments. While not a major issue, it s something to monitor, especially if the player is very active.
5. **Smaller Size Options**
The **9.5-inch size** is great for younger players, but those who are significantly larger or older may need a larger glove (e.g., 10.5 or 11 inches) for better fit and performance.
6. **No Built-In Wrist Support**
Unlike some gloves designed for infielders, this model lacks additional wrist support features. While this isn t a dealbreaker for outfielders or casual players, it may not be ideal for those who prefer extra stability.
---
### **Conclusion**
The **Franklin 22353L MeshTek 9.5 Youth Baseball T-Ball Glove (LHT)** is an excellent choice for **young players (ages 6 9) transitioning from tee-ball to live-ball baseball**. Its **durability, lightweight design, and deep pocket** make it practical for beginners, while its **affordable price** and **easy maintenance** add to its appeal. However, it may not suit **older or more advanced players** who need a stiffer or deeper glove, nor does it offer the premium feel of a full-leather option.
The glove s **primary strengths lie in its functionality for youth use**, making it a solid investment for parents looking to equip their child with a reliable, long-lasting glove without excessive cost.
---
### **Recommendation**
**Buy this glove if:**- Your child is **6 9 years old** and new to live-ball baseball.
- You want a **durable, lightweight glove** that won t break easily during practice.
- You prefer a **deep pocket** for catching fly balls and grounders.
- You re looking for an **affordable, no-frills option** that gets the job done.
**Consider alternatives if:**- Your child is **older (10 ) or more advanced** and needs a deeper or stiffer glove (e.g., a 10.5-inch or 11-inch model with a modified web).
- You prioritize **premium leather feel** and are willing to pay more for a softer, high-end glove (e.g., Wilson A2000 or Rawlings Heart of Gold).
- Your child plays **infielder positions** and would benefit from additional wrist support.
**Final Verdict:** This glove is a **top pick for beginner youth players**, offering a great balance of performance, durability, and value. It s a smart choice for parents who want a reliable glove that can grow with their child s skills.
Shipped quickly with your choice of mail options. This is for LEFT handed kids, it worn on right hand and throwers. With the trusted Franklin brand and high-quality materials, this glove is a reliable choice for aspiring baseball players. The left-handed orientation and 5-finger provide a proper fit functionality for young athletes.
This Franklin MeshTek Series 22353L 9.5 Youth Baseball / T-ball Glove in blue and neon green is a durable stylish option for young baseball players. Made with leather lining and a slip-on cuff type, this glove is designed for easy use comfort during games.