Wilson A2000 Baseball Glove Series Instruction Manual

Product Overview

The Wilson A2000 Baseball Glove Series, specifically the 11.5-inch Right Hand Throw Black/Blonde model, is crafted for elite performance in baseball. This glove is designed for infielders and pitchers, offering a blend of durability, feel, and quick break-in capabilities. It features Pro Stock Leather, known for its ruggedness and premium feel, along with Dual Welting for a durable pocket and Flat Finger Binding for enhanced comfort.

Figure 1: Front view of the Wilson A2000 11.5-inch baseball glove in Black/Blonde.

Setup and Initial Break-in

Your new Wilson A2000 glove is made from high-quality Pro Stock Leather, which is naturally stiff when new. Proper break-in is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. While the glove is designed for a quicker break-in due to features like the thin heel pad, dedicated effort will ensure it molds perfectly to your hand and playing style.

Recommended Break-in Methods:

1. Forming the Pocket: Place a baseball firmly into the desired pocket area of the glove. This helps to create a natural, deep pocket for secure ball retention.
2. Securing and Compressing: Once the ball is in place, fold the glove around it. Use a shoelace or a glove wrap to tightly secure the glove in this closed position. Leave it overnight, or for extended periods, to help the leather conform. Some users find placing the wrapped glove under a mattress overnight can aid in compression.
3. Regular Use: The most effective way to break in your glove is by using it. Play catch frequently, catching and closing the glove repeatedly. This natural action will soften the leather and create a personalized fit.
4. Leather Conditioning (Use Sparingly): Apply a small amount of high-quality glove leather conditioner to the glove. Avoid over-application, as too much conditioner can make the leather too soft and compromise its structure. Focus on areas that need softening, such as the palm and web.

Figure 2: Side view illustrating the glove's structure and potential pocket area.

Operating Your Glove

The Wilson A2000 11.5-inch model is specifically designed for infielders and pitchers. Its size and web pattern (Pro-Laced T-Web) are optimized for quick transfers and secure catches in these positions.

Wearing the Glove:

• Insert your hand fully into the glove. The thin heel pad is designed for a comfortable and secure fit.
• For infielders, some prefer to put two fingers (index and middle) into the pinky stall for a deeper pocket and better control. Experiment to find what feels most comfortable and effective for your playing style.
• Ensure the glove fits snugly but allows for comfortable movement and closing.

Figure 3: Rear view of the glove, highlighting the hand opening and lacing.

Glove Sizing Chart:

Refer to the general baseball glove size chart below to understand typical sizing recommendations based on position and age. The 11.5-inch size is ideal for infielders and pitchers.

Figure 4: General Baseball Glove Size Chart.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance will extend the life and performance of your Wilson A2000 glove.

Cleaning:

• After each use, wipe down your glove with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt and sweat.
• For tougher grime, use a specialized glove cleaner, following the product's instructions carefully.
• Allow the glove to air dry naturally. Avoid direct sunlight or artificial heat sources, as these can dry out and crack the leather.

Conditioning:

• Periodically apply a small amount of high-quality glove conditioner to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. The frequency depends on usage and climate, but typically every few months is sufficient.
• Rub the conditioner into the leather using a soft cloth, ensuring even coverage. Pay attention to areas that experience the most wear, such as the palm and web.
• Wipe off any excess conditioner after application.

Figure 5: Detail of the Pro-Laced T-Web and lacing, areas that benefit from conditioning.

Storage:

• Store your glove in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
• To maintain the pocket shape, place a baseball or softball in the pocket and secure the glove with a glove wrap or shoelace when not in use.

Troubleshooting

Most issues with a baseball glove relate to its break-in or general wear. Here are some common concerns and solutions:

Glove is Too Stiff:

• Solution: Re-apply break-in methods as described in the "Setup and Initial Break-in" section. Increase frequency of playing catch and working the glove. Ensure you are using a baseball to form the pocket.

Pocket Not Forming Properly:

• Solution: Focus on consistently placing the ball in the same spot and securing the glove tightly around it. Use a glove mallet to pound the pocket, which helps to soften the leather and deepen the pocket.

Leather Cracking or Drying:

• Solution: This indicates a lack of conditioning. Apply a small amount of glove conditioner to rehydrate the leather. Ensure proper storage away from heat and direct sunlight.

Laces Breaking or Loosening:

• Solution: Laces can wear out over time. They can be replaced by a professional glove repair service or by purchasing replacement laces and re-lacing the glove yourself.

Figure 6: The Wilson A2000 logo, signifying quality craftsmanship.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

The Wilson A2000 Baseball Glove Series comes with a 1-year limited warranty from the manufacturer. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

For warranty claims, product support, or any questions regarding your glove, please contact Wilson customer service directly. You can often find contact information on the official Wilson website or through the retailer where you purchased the product.

Note: Damage resulting from improper break-in, misuse, neglect, or unauthorized modifications may not be covered under warranty. Always follow recommended care and maintenance guidelines.