Starting a new position

Before you buy anything

• Ask what the team provides. Many teams have a shared catcher's set and sometimes a first base mitt.
• Size for her body, not her experience. A new 13-year-old needs the same sizes as other 13-year-olds, not youth gear because she's a beginner.
• Buy early. First base and catcher's mitts are stiff when new and take weeks of catch to break in. Buy before the season starts.

Starting at first base

She can start with her regular glove. Once she plays first base most games, a first base mitt makes scooping low throws much easier.

What to buy first

• A first base mitt in her size. That's the only position-specific piece she needs.
• A fielder's face mask, if your league requires one or she'd feel safer. First base is close to the batter on bunts and hard hits.

Starting at catcher

Catchers need the most gear. If money is tight, buy it in this order:

• 1. Catcher's mitt. It's personal, it takes the longest to break in, and team mitts are often worn out.
• 2. Catcher's helmet. A good fit matters most here, and having her own is more hygienic.
• 3. Chest protector and leg guards. Team sets often work for these at first.

Sizes

Ages 12 to 15 usually fit intermediate gear better than adult gear. Adult gear is cut for adult shoulders, so it slides around on a growing body. See how to measure.