Sofia Martinez
There are a variety of cleats that MLB players can choose to wear, and they can be made from either metal or plastic. Metal cleats are also known as spikes and are worn by players in high school and junior leagues. Plastic cleats are also referred to as MCS cleats and are favoured by some players due to their lightweight nature and better weight distribution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic cleats worn by MLB players | MCS (plastic) cleats |
| Metal cleats vs plastic cleats | Metal cleats are heavier, have fewer cleats, and distribute weight unevenly with more pressure points |
| Plastic cleats advantages | Lighter, more cleats, better weight distribution with less pressure points, safer and more foot-friendly |
| Metal cleats vs plastic cleats by position | Metal cleats are preferred for positions requiring agility, such as the corner outfield position |
| Examples of MLB players wearing plastic cleats | Infielders, outfielders, big boppers, base-stealers, Posey |
| Examples of MLB players wearing metal cleats | N/A |
| Brands that offer plastic cleats | Nike, Adidas |
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What You'll Learn
Metal vs. plastic cleats
Metal and plastic cleats have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two depends on the player's priorities and playing style.
Plastic cleats, also known as MCS cleats, are made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and have hard plastic studs. They are considered easier on the feet as they are lighter and distribute weight better due to having more cleats, resulting in less pressure on each individual point. They are also less likely to cause injuries and are safe for children to use. However, they are not as durable as metal cleats and are unsafe for artificial turf fields as their studs can get caught.
Metal cleats, on the other hand, offer superior traction and grip on grass and dirt surfaces due to their metal spikes. They are popular among professional baseball players, especially MLB players, for this reason. Metal cleats provide exceptional support due to their stiff soles, although they are slightly less comfortable than plastic cleats. They are also more expensive, require maintenance to prevent rusting, and can damage artificial turf fields. Metal cleats are typically banned from youth leagues due to safety concerns.
The choice between metal and plastic cleats depends on the player's position and playing style. Infielders, who need to make quick lateral movements, often prioritize traction and agility, with most wearing low-cut cleats for improved agility. While metal cleats offer better traction, plastic cleats are still a viable option, especially on well-maintained fields. Pitchers usually require maximum stability and leverage, so they often opt for hard plastic or metal cleats, with low-top designs being the preferred choice. Catchers often wear high-top cleats to minimize ankle strain from squatting for extended periods, and they may prefer metal studs for the extra traction.
Some MLB players have made the switch from metal to plastic cleats due to injury concerns. Posey, for example, switched to plastic cleats after suffering a leg injury in 2011, accepting the trade-off of decreased acceleration and handling in exchange for reduced risk of injury. On the other hand, players like Puig, known for their aggressive playing style, opt for metal cleats. Hybrid cleats, with a combination of metal and plastic studs, are also gaining popularity as they offer a balance between performance and injury prevention.
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Plastic cleats are easier on the feet
Plastic cleats are becoming an increasingly popular choice for MLB players. MCS (plastic) cleats are worn by both infielders and outfielders, and players of various specialisms are making the switch. The main reason for this is that plastic cleats are easier on the feet. They are lighter and have more cleats, which means that weight is distributed better, and there are fewer pressure points. Over a long season, this can make a significant difference, and players are keen to avoid foot injuries.
The advantages of plastic cleats are clear, but some players remain loyal to metal cleats. Metal cleats are still worn by many of the world's elite baseball players. Some players have switched to plastic cleats due to injury, like Posey, who suffered a snapped ankle in 2011, which was caused by his foot being "snagged" in the ground. Posey accepts the decreased acceleration and handling ability of plastic cleats as a trade-off for the decreased risk of injury.
For younger players, plastic cleats are often the first choice. In T-Ball, Little League, and Junior League, plastic cleats are worn, and they are considered safe and kid-friendly. However, as players progress to high school ball, metal cleats are often introduced.
While the comfort and safety benefits of plastic cleats are clear, some players may feel that the performance benefits of metal cleats are more important. Metal cleats offer greater traction and acceleration, which could be advantageous for certain positions on the field. Ultimately, the choice between plastic and metal cleats depends on the player's priorities and preferences.
The decision to wear plastic or metal cleats is an important one for MLB players. While plastic cleats offer comfort and safety benefits, metal cleats provide greater traction and performance advantages. Some players may choose to wear plastic cleats to protect their feet over a long season, while others may prioritize the agility and speed offered by metal cleats.
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Plastic cleats are worn by infielders and outfielders
While some players prefer the agility provided by metal cleats, MCS cleats are a popular choice for the corner outfield position, where a slight decrease in acceleration is not a significant disadvantage. Additionally, players who have experienced leg injuries may opt for MCS cleats to avoid their feet getting "snagged" in the ground, a common issue with metal cleats that can lead to severe injuries.
The choice between plastic and metal cleats can depend on various factors, including player position, field conditions, and personal preference. Plastic cleats are often considered safer, especially for younger players, as they are less likely to cause injury. This is reflected in the progression from plastic cleats in Little League to metal cleats in Junior League and high school baseball.
While some MLB players stick with metal cleats for the extra traction, many have made the switch to MCS cleats. This trend is evident in the increasing number of professional ballplayers choosing MCS cleats, indicating a shift in priorities towards comfort and injury prevention.
The decision to wear plastic or metal cleats ultimately comes down to individual preferences and playing styles. While metal cleats offer better traction and agility, MCS cleats provide comfort, weight distribution, and reduced injury risks. This balance between performance and safety influences the choice of infielders and outfielders in MLB, with some opting for the stability of MCS cleats over the speed of metal spikes.
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Metal cleats are worn by base stealers
Metal cleats are typically worn by players in high school baseball and college softball. They are also used in golf. However, metal cleats are not permitted in youth baseball leagues, and some states ban metal cleats for softball.
The type of cleats worn by base stealers in the MLB depends on the condition of the field. On a well-maintained outfield, metal cleats are recommended as they provide better traction and grip. They can also help batters maintain their footing in the batter's box. However, metal cleats can cause injuries when athletes change direction and can wear down when used on surfaces other than grass or dirt.
Some of the most successful base stealers in the MLB wear metal cleats. For example, Dee Gordon of the Los Angeles Dodgers wears Under Armour Yards with Micro G midsole cushions and a 4D foam insole for shock absorption. Another base stealer, Jose Altuve, wears the Nike Air MVP Pros, which have helped him steal 41 bases while only being caught three times.
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Metal cleats are worn by big boppers
However, some players in the MLB are opting for MCS (plastic) cleats due to their comfort and weight distribution. MCS cleats are lighter and have more cleats, reducing pressure points on the feet. This is especially beneficial for players who want to avoid injuries and stay healthy, as they reduce the risk of feet getting "snagged" in the ground. Posey, for example, switched to MCS cleats after suffering a devastating ankle injury in 2011.
Despite the benefits of MCS cleats, many players in the MLB still prefer metal cleats. The choice between metal and plastic cleats depends on various factors, including player position and field conditions. For instance, the corner outfield position may be better suited for MCS cleats as they do not require as much agility.
Ultimately, the decision to wear metal or plastic cleats is a personal preference for big boppers in the MLB. While some players value the comfort and injury prevention of MCS cleats, others prioritize the traditional feel and increased traction of metal cleats.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, some MLB players wear plastic cleats, also known as MCS cleats.
MCS cleats are considered to be easier on the feet. They are lighter and distribute weight better with fewer pressure points.
The Alpha Huarache Elite 4 is a popular plastic cleat among MLB players. Adidas is also a popular brand, with 17% of major league starters wearing Adidas cleats in 2023.
Yes, many MLB players still prefer metal cleats. Metal cleats offer better traction and acceleration compared to plastic cleats.
