Rawlings’ Book Looks at Baseball History Through 50 Iconic Gloves

ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI (January 13, 2026) – Rawlings^®, the official glove of Major League Baseball^® and the creator of the renowned Rawlings Gold Glove Award^®, announced the upcoming release of the book ‘The Finest in the Field^®: A History of Baseball Through 50 Iconic Gloves’, authored by award-winning writer and filmmaker Ed Wheatley, with a foreword by Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench. Published by Rizzoli, this oversized hardcover book brings baseball history to life through 50 gloves drawn from Rawlings’ unmatched product portfolio and worn by some of the most influential MLB^® players to ever play the game.

“This book reflects Rawlings’ deep connection to the history of the game and celebrates the gloves that have epitomized defensive excellence through the years,” said Mike Thompson, Chief Marketing Officer for Rawlings. “Rawlings is grateful to play a role in each of these special stories, and to share them for the first time ever with baseball enthusiasts spanning multiple generations.” 

Gloves are the focal point of this richly illustrated collection of stories that highlights iconic moments, famous plays and the defensive greats that have defined America’s pastime. Each glove is presented through detailed photography and paired with immersive essays that place the artifact within its historical context. Captivating imagery, period advertisements, and additional memorabilia further illuminate the era each glove represents.

“Within each glove, is a unique story – some more dramatic and some where the glove’s role is more subtle, always remaining by each player’s side,” said Johnny Bench, Hall of Fame catcher for the Cincinnati Reds. “As baseball looks forward to the next 150 years, the glove will remain a tool upon which many more memories will be built.”

‘The Finest in the Field^®: a History of Baseball Through 50 Iconic Gloves’ is available now for pre-order from your favorite/preferred book retailer. The book be available for purchase on Rawlings.com and in fine bookstores nationwide on March 24, 2026.

Rawlings is a member and supporter of NSGA. Mike Thompson, Harry Latina, Claude Carr and Ed Horner of Rawlings are in the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame.