Best Baseballs of 2026

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

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Baseballs are an essential item for any baseball player or enthusiast. These balls are specifically designed for the sport, with a solid cork center and a leather or synthetic cover. They come in a standard size and weight, and are used in both professional and recreational games. Baseballs are also used for training purposes, such as pitching and catching drills. Whether you're playing a game with friends or practicing your skills, a good quality baseball is a must-have item for any baseball player.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Rawlings Official T-Balls TVB Cover #TOP 1
Rawlings Official T-Balls TVB
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Rawlings Official League Recreational Use Baseballs Cover #TOP 2
Rawlings Official League Recreational Use Baseballs
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Rawlings Official 2023 MLB Display Case Ball Cover #TOP 3
Rawlings Official 2023 MLB Display Case Ball
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Baseballs

Rawlings Official T-Balls TVB

AMATVBBOX3
White
Official
Rawlings Official T-Balls TVB Cover
Rawlings | Official T-Balls | TVB | Youth/6u | 3 Count | Sponge Rubber Core | Indoor/Outdoor

The Rawlings Official T-Balls TVB are perfect for youth tball players aged 8 and under. These balls are designed for both indoor and outdoor training, allowing players to train effectively and build confidence. The balls have a durable synthetic leather cover that enables players to continually train with them. The sponge and rubber center gives them a cushioned feel that is safer for younger, beginner players. Safety and fun are top priorities in creating these balls because it will allow beginners to develop the most with the knowledge that they can train injury-free and have fun during the process.

What We Like
Soft core for young players
Durable and long-lasting
Classic leather feel
Official size for training
Safe for little hands
What We Don't Like
Slightly thin outer leather
Softer than standard baseballs

Rawlings Official League Recreational Use Baseballs

OLB3BAG12
white
Rawlings Official League Recreational Use Baseballs Cover
Rawlings | Official League Recreational Use Practice Baseballs | Youth | Bag of 12 | OLB3BAG12 | 12 Count

Get the perfect baseballs for your young ones with Rawlings Official League Recreational Use Baseballs. These baseballs are designed for recreational use, making them ideal for batting practice or casual games. With a solid cork and rubber center and a synthetic leather cover, these baseballs are easy to grip due to their raised seams. These baseballs come in a convenient mesh carrying bag, making them easy to transport wherever you go. Ideal for ages 8 and under.

What We Like
Affordable price
Durable construction
Good for youth practice
Includes convenient carrying bag
Official size and weight
What We Don't Like
Not game-quality balls
May show wear with heavy use
#TOP 3

Rawlings Official 2023 MLB Display Case Ball

ROMLB-R
White/Red/Navy
Rawlings Official 2023 MLB Display Case Ball Cover
Rawlings | Official 2026 Major League Baseball | Display Case Included | MLB | ROMLB-R

The Rawlings MLB 2023 Display Ball is the ultimate baseball for fans and collectors of all ages. It is crafted with high-quality materials and designed to meet the exact specifications of Major League Baseball. With its full-grain leather cover and 108 classic red stitches, this ball offers outstanding durability and an authentic feel. The ball features the official Major League Baseball logo, Rawlings logo, and commissioner's signature, making it perfect for collecting player autographs. Additionally, the clear display case with UV protection will keep your ball in pristine condition for years to come, allowing you to showcase your prized baseball with pride.

What We Like
Premium leather quality
Excellent for autographs
Protective UV display case
Great value for price
Easy snap-together assembly
What We Don't Like
Case can be tricky to open
Some balls lighter than expected

Rawlings Recreational Use Baseballs with Bucket

AMAOLB3BUCK24
Red, White
24 Baseballs
Rawlings Recreational Use Baseballs with Bucket Cover
Rawlings | Official League Recreational Use Practice Baseballs | Youth/8U | OLB3 | Bucket | 24 Count

The Rawlings Olbs3 Recreational Use Baseballs are perfect for young players looking to improve their skills. With a solid cork and rubber center and synthetic leather cover, these balls are easy to grip and throw, making them ideal for players aged 8 and under. The convenient white bucket with the MLB logo and Rawlings patch makes transport a breeze. These official size and weight balls are the number one choice of leagues, coaches, parents, and players in North America.

What We Like
Consistent quality
Durable for practice
Convenient storage bucket
Great value
Ideal for youth training
What We Don't Like
Synthetic cover durability
Laces not highly raised

Franklin Sports Soft Foam Baseballs

14929C1
Red/White/Blue
Standard
Franklin Sports Soft Foam Baseballs Cover
Franklin Sports Foam Baseballs - Soft Foam Practice Baseballs for Kids - Perfect for Hitting and Indoor or Outdoor Play - 3 Pack - Official MLB Licensed Product

Franklin Foam Baseballs are ideal for young players just starting out. The soft foam material makes them perfect for learning to throw, catch, and hit without the worry of injuries. You can practice your batting skills both indoors and outdoors, as these balls are designed to fly straight and true while preventing damage to your surroundings. Their size closely resembles that of an official baseball, giving you an authentic game experience. With these foam balls, kids can enjoy playing while feeling like they are part of the Major League, thanks to the official MLB logos.

What We Like
Soft foam construction
Bright, easy-to-find colors
Safe for indoor play
Durable for repeated use
Great for young children
What We Don't Like
Lightweight for batting practice
Not very firm center
#TOP 6

Amazon Basics Practice Baseballs Bucket 24 Count

Amazon Basics
JRTT4051
White
Amazon Basics Practice Baseballs Bucket 24 Count Cover
Amazon Basics Bucket of Practice Baseballs, 24 Count

The Amazon Basics Baseballs Bucket offers 24 regulation-size baseballs, each with a 9-inch circumference and weighing 5.1 ounces, perfect for regular practice sessions. The set comes with a convenient bucket that has a secure lid, making it easy for you to carry and store the balls wherever you go. Each ball features a synthetic leather cover with classic red stitching, providing a reliable grip that helps improve your handling skills. Inside, the solid cork and rubber core ensures the balls are durable and perform consistently, even during intense training. This set is great for various drills like pitching, hitting, and fielding, helping you develop your baseball skills effectively.

What We Like
24 regulation-size baseballs
Durable synthetic leather cover
Solid cork and rubber core
Convenient storage bucket with lid
Ideal for multiple training drills
What We Don't Like
Bucket hard to open
Slightly slippery when damp

Franklin Sports Plastic Baseballs - Pack of 8 (70mm)

14938P6
White
70-mm
Franklin Sports Plastic Baseballs - Pack of 8 (70mm) Cover
Franklin Sports MLB Plastic Baseballs - 8 Pack

Franklin Sports Plastic Baseballs are the perfect choice for young Baseball players who want to improve their hitting skills. The solid mold construction ensures optimal flight paths and distance while the lightweight and perforated exterior make them comfortable and safe to use. These official-sized 70mm plastic balls are suitable for all ages and ideal for backyard games and batting practice. Additionally, they are compatible with Franklin Sports pitching machines for an even more comprehensive training experience.

What We Like
Perfect fit for pitching machines
Durable under heavy use
Great for young children
Works for fielding drills
Travel further than typical wiffle balls
What We Don't Like
Less curve than standard wiffle balls
Not optimal for all pitching machines
#TOP 8

SKLZ Impact Limited-Flight Practice Baseball, Softball and Mini Balls

1723
Yellow, Black
12-Pack
SKLZ Impact Limited-Flight Practice Baseball, Softball and Mini Balls Cover
SKLZ Impact Limited-Flight Practice Baseball, Softball, and Mini Balls (Baseballs, 12 Pack), Yellow, Black

The SKLZ Impact Limited-Flight Practice Baseball, Softball and Mini Balls pack is perfect for players who want to improve their batting skills. Its limited-flight design offers a more authentic feel, while its practically indestructible material ensures that it can withstand thousands of hits, lasting season after season. With instant feedback, players can fine-tune their swing and control their power. Moreover, it is a great tool for warm-ups, especially when you don't have access to batting cages or a batting screen for protection, helping improve your confidence at bat.

What We Like
Exceptional durability and longevity
Safe for kids and property
Realistic ball flight and feedback
Easy to see and track
Works with plastic and metal bats
What We Don't Like
Higher initial cost
Not ideal for pitching practice
#TOP 9

Rawlings Little League Competition Baseballs

AMARLLB1BOX6
White
Rawlings Little League Competition Baseballs Cover
Rawlings | LITTLE LEAGUE Competition Grade Baseballs | RLLB1 | Youth/14U | Game/Practice Use | 6 Count

The Rawlings Little League Competition Grade Baseballs are specially designed for youth baseball leagues aged 14 and under. The composite cork and rubber center and the durable full-grain leather cover make it a perfect choice for both game and practice sessions. The raised seams offer an improved grip, making it easier for the young players to handle. With a box of 6 competition-grade balls, kids can have a great time playing their favorite sport.

What We Like
Good quality leather
Durable construction
Regulation size and weight
Improved thread grip
Reasonable price
What We Don't Like
Minor stitching inconsistencies
Practice balls cost more
#TOP 10

VENTUR3 VPLP05 Full Grain Leather Baseballs

VENTUR3
White
VENTUR3 VPLP05 Full Grain Leather Baseballs Cover
VENTUR3 Sports VPLP05 Baseballs, Official Size 9” 5 oz, Full Grain Leather Game Baseballs, Raised Seams, Pro Core Cushioned Cork Center, Wool Windings, for Competition & Practice

The VENTUR3 VPLP05 Baseballs offer a premium experience for players seeking quality and durability. Featuring a full grain leather cover, these balls provide a strong grip and can handle intense gameplay, so you can rely on them in every match. The Pro Core cushioned cork center delivers a consistent bounce and a solid feel when you hit or catch, giving you a true professional experience. Raised seam stitching improves your control, making pitching and fielding easier during practice or games. Additionally, the wool blend windings help the ball maintain its shape and deliver a reliable bounce, ensuring it lasts through many uses.

What We Like
Full grain leather cover
Pro Core cushioned center
Raised seam stitching
Durable wool blend windings
Buying Guide Image

A Guide to Choosing the Right Baseballs

The Importance of Choosing the Right Baseball

When it comes to America's favorite pastime, the right baseball can make all the difference in a game. From the little leagues to the major leagues, selecting the right ball is crucial for players, coaches, and fans alike.

Consider the League and Level of Play

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a baseball is the league and level of play. Little league baseballs, for example, are smaller and lighter than major league baseballs. This is because young players have less strength and experience, and the smaller ball is easier for them to grip and control.

On the other hand, major league baseballs are larger and heavier, with a higher-quality construction. These balls are designed to withstand the rigorous demands of professional play, and the added weight helps pitchers throw harder and more accurately.

Evaluate the Ball's Construction

Another important factor to consider is the ball's construction. High-quality baseballs are made with a core of cork or rubber, surrounded by layers of yarn and covered in leather or synthetic material. This construction gives the ball its shape, weight, and resilience, and can affect its performance on the field.

Cheaper baseballs, on the other hand, may be made with lower-quality materials that can impact the ball's durability and performance. For example, a ball with a lower-quality cover may not hold up as well to the rigors of play, and may not be as responsive when hit by a bat.

Check for Approval by the Appropriate Baseball Organization

In order for a baseball to be used in official games, it must be approved by the appropriate baseball organization. In the United States, that organization is the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) for college baseball, and the Major League Baseball (MLB) for professional baseball.

Balls that are approved by these organizations have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they meet the required standards for size, weight, and construction. In order to carry the official stamp of approval, a ball must pass these tests and be deemed suitable for use in official games.

Choose a Ball with the Right Feel

While the construction and approval of a baseball are important factors to consider, the feel of the ball is also crucial. After all, the ball will be in the hands of the players for the majority of the game, and it's important that it feels comfortable and easy to grip.

To find a ball with the right feel, it's best to try out a few different options. Many sporting goods stores will have a selection of baseballs on hand, and will allow customers to try them out before making a purchase. By testing out a few different balls, players can get a sense of which one feels the best in their hands.

Conclusion

Choosing the right baseball is an important decision for players, coaches, and fans alike. By considering the league and level of play, evaluating the ball's construction, checking for approval by the appropriate baseball organization, and choosing a ball with the right feel, players and coaches can ensure they are using the best ball for their needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why are baseballs so expensive?

Baseballs can be expensive due to the high-quality materials used in their construction. MLB baseballs are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using high-quality leather, tightly wound yarn, and a rubberized cork center. These factors contribute to the cost of manufacturing and result in higher prices for baseballs.

2. What baseball does high school use?

High schools often use EIT baseballs, which are also used in collegiate play. EIT baseballs have Rawlings raised seams, a full grain leather cover, and 15% wool windings, making them superior to traditional balls. They also feature a Core Bond adhesive, providing durability and quality for high school baseball games.

3. What does MLB do with used balls?

Used baseballs in MLB are not reused. Instead, they are authenticated and sold as memorabilia in MLB shops. The home team collects and sells each discarded ball, often noting what happened during the play before it was discarded. This allows fans to own a piece of baseball history.

4. What happens to MLB baseballs that hit the dirt?

When MLB baseballs touch a dirt surface, they are typically immediately thrown out of play. Some of these balls may be used for batting practice, while others are sent to minor league teams. The number of baseballs used in each game will vary, but any ball that touches the dirt is usually removed from play.

5. What do MLB teams do with old baseballs?

During an MLB game, an average of 84 to 120 baseballs are used. These balls can be requested by a pitcher or replaced when they are hit out of play or become discolored. Discarded baseballs cannot be reused and are instead authenticated and sold as memorabilia in MLB shops.

6. Can you keep MLB baseballs?

Yes, if you catch a baseball at an MLB game, you are allowed to keep it. Unlike some other sports, where you may have to return a ball that goes into the stands, MLB allows fans to keep the baseballs they catch. You can take the ball home, display it, or use it for various purposes.

7. Are high school baseballs the same as MLB?

High school baseballs are very similar to MLB baseballs. The main difference is that high school baseballs have a slightly lighter density compared to professional baseballs. However, both types of balls are designed to meet the requirements and standards of their respective leagues.

8. Can high school baseball players go straight to MLB?

While it is possible for high school baseball players to go straight to MLB, it is relatively rare. There have been instances where players have made the jump directly from high school to the MLB, but it is not a common occurrence. Most players go through college or minor league systems before reaching the MLB level.

Editor's Notes

During our baseball research, we found 24 baseball products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 187,864 customer reviews through our big data system to write the baseballs list. We found that most customers choose baseballs with an average price of $18.52.

The baseballs are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of baseballs, including Rawlings, Franklin Sports, SKLZ, VENTUR3. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.

Baseballs Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Rawlings Rawlings Rawlings Rawlings Franklin Sports Amazon Basics Franklin Sports SKLZ Rawlings VENTUR3
Material Leather, Synthetic Synthetic Leather Fleece Synthetic Leather covers with sold cork and rubber centres Polyurethane PVC and Cork rubber Plastic Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) Rubber Leather
Color White white White/Red/Navy Red, White Red/White/Blue White White Yellow, Black White White
Age Range (Description) Youth Kid Adult 8 years and below Kid Youth Kid Kid Youth Kid
Item Weight 1 Pounds 3 Pounds 27.22 g 8.95 Pounds 0.11 Kilograms 9 Pounds 0.35 Pounds - 0.31 Pounds -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy