
( Brand: Rawlings ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: PRO12-6PRO ), ( Garment Care: Clean With Damp Cloth ), ( Lining Material: Leather ), ( Color: Tan ), ( Year Manufactured: 2020-2029 ), ( Glove Cuff Type: Slip-on ), ( Vintage: No ), ( Insulation Material: Synthetic ), ( Handedness: Right ), ( Department: Unisex Adults ), ( Type: Glove ), ( Manufacturer Warranty: 1 Year ), ( Style: 5 Finger ), ( Sport/activity: Baseball )
The **Rawlings Pro12-6PRO Pro Heart Hide Nolan Arenado 12" Baseball Glove** represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and performance, meticulously engineered for elite infielders who demand precision, durability, and a touch of legendary heritage. Crafted from **Pro Heart Hide**, a premium leather sourced from the heart of the cow where the grain is thickest and most resilient, this glove delivers unmatched durability and a rich, supple feel that softens with every use. The **Pro12-6PRO** model is specifically designed for shortstops and second basemen, offering a **12-inch pocket depth** and a **6-inch back opening**, a perfect balance for quick transfers, secure catches, and effortless release of the ball. The **Nolan Arenado-inspired design** pays homage to one of baseball s most dynamic shortstops, blending his aggressive playing style with the glove s high-performance features. The **deep, contoured pocket** ensures the ball nestles securely, while the **reinforced palm and finger panels** provide added support and longevity, even through rigorous training sessions or high-pressure games. The **web configuration** is a **modified trapeze**, offering a wide, open design for quick grabs and a snug fit for smaller hands, making it ideal for players who thrive on speed and accuracy. The **butter-soft leather** is treated with **Horween tanning**, a process renowned for enhancing flexibility, breathability, and resistance to wear, ensuring the glove maintains its shape and performance over years of use. Whether you're making a game-saving play or practicing drills, this glove is built to inspire confidence, offering the perfect marriage of tradition and innovation for players who refuse to compromise on quality.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Rawlings Pro12-6PRO (Pro Hide, Horween Heart Hide, Nolan Arenado Edition)**
#### **Pros:**1. **Premium Leather Construction** The **Horween Heart Hide** is a high-quality, full-grain leather known for its durability, softness, and ability to develop a rich patina over time. This makes the ball feel more natural and comfortable in the hand compared to synthetic alternatives.
2. **Authentic Player Edition** The **Nolan Arenado** signature adds a unique touch, making it a collectible item for fans of the player. The design includes subtle branding that appeals to baseball enthusiasts.
3. **Classic Pro12 Design** The **Pro12-6PRO** is a well-regarded model in Rawlings lineup, favored by many players for its **balanced weight distribution, grip, and flight characteristics**. It s designed to maximize control and spin, making it suitable for both batting practice and light game use.
4. **Durability** Full-grain leather holds up better to wear than stitched or synthetic alternatives, though it will still show signs of use over time. The **Pro Hide** (a blend of leather and synthetic materials) adds extra resilience compared to pure leather.
5. **Good for Batting Practice** If used primarily for batting practice (not live games), the ball will last longer than a game-used ball. The **Pro12-6PRO** is a solid choice for hitting drills due to its predictable flight and feel.
6. **Aesthetic Appeal** The **Pro Hide** exterior has a sleek, professional look, while the **Horween Heart Hide** core provides a premium feel. The Nolan Arenado branding adds a personal touch for collectors.
---
#### **Cons:**1. **Price** This is a **premium baseball**, and the **Horween Heart Hide** and Nolan Arenado signature drive up the cost significantly. For casual players, a standard **Pro Hide** or **Game-Ready** ball may be a more budget-friendly alternative.
2. **Not for Live Game Use** While the **Pro12-6PRO** is durable, it is **not officially approved for MLB games** (unlike the **Game-Ready** or **MLB Official Game Ball**). Using it in a live game could result in disqualification or penalties.
3. **Weight and Feel Variations** Some players report that **Horween Heart Hide** balls can feel slightly heavier or less "pop" compared to traditional leather, which may affect batting practice feel.
4. **Maintenance Required** Full-grain leather develops a patina over time, which some players prefer, but others may find it less grippy as it wears. Unlike synthetic balls, it requires occasional conditioning to maintain flexibility.
5. **Limited Availability** Due to its signature and premium materials, this ball may not be as widely available as standard Rawlings models, potentially making it harder to find in stores.
6. **Overkill for Casual Use** If you re not a serious collector or a player who values the **Horween Heart Hide** feel, a **Pro Hide** or **Game-Ready** ball may offer similar performance at a lower cost.
---
### **Conclusion:**The **Rawlings Pro12-6PRO (Horween Heart Hide, Nolan Arenado Edition)** is an **excellent choice** for players who prioritize **premium feel, durability, and collectibility**. It excels in batting practice due to its **balanced weight, grip, and authentic leather construction**, making it a favorite among serious hitters and baseball enthusiasts. However, its **high cost and lack of game approval** may not justify the purchase for casual players or those who only need a standard practice ball.
If you re a **serious batter, a collector, or someone who appreciates high-end materials**, this ball is a **strong recommendation**. If you re on a budget or only need a ball for occasional use, a **Pro Hide or Game-Ready** model would be a more practical alternative.
### **Final Recommendation:** **Buy it if:**- You want the **best possible feel and durability** for batting practice.
- You re a **Nolan Arenado fan** or a collector who values signature editions.
- You re willing to invest in a **premium baseball** that will last longer than synthetic alternatives.
**Skip it if:**- You re looking for a **budget-friendly** practice ball.
- You plan to use it in **live games** (where official game balls are required).
- You prefer a **lighter, more traditional leather feel** over Horween Heart Hide.
For most **serious hitters**, this is a **worthwhile purchase** just be prepared for the higher cost. For casual players, a **Pro Hide or Game-Ready** ball may serve the same purpose without the premium price.
Slight tear at base of index finger on palm side Great shape.