The infield is the heart of your baseball diamond—and also its most vulnerable area. A single heavy rainstorm can transform a perfectly groomed infield into a muddy, unplayable surface requiring hours of repair. Quality infield tarps represent your first line of defense against weather-related field damage, potentially saving thousands in maintenance costs and preventing frustrating game cancellations.
At BaseballTips.com, we’ve equipped baseball programs with field protection solutions since 1999. We understand that proper infield tarps aren’t just an expense—they’re an essential investment in your field’s playability, consistency, and longevity. Let’s explore everything you need to know about protecting your infield with the right tarp system.
Understanding Infield Tarp Options
Infield tarps come in various configurations, each designed to address specific protection needs:
Full Infield Tarps
These comprehensive covers protect the entire infield skin area from foul line to foul line, typically extending 5-10 feet into the outfield grass. Key features include:
- Material Options – Professional-grade polyethylene (6-10oz) most popular material
- Size Range – Typically 160′ x 160′ to 170′ x 170′ for standard fields. 90′ x 90′ for youth baseball, 120′ x 120′ for softball.
- Edge Reinforcement – Quality tarps feature reinforced grommets or handles at regular intervals
- Deployment Method – Requires 6-8 people minimum for proper handling
Partial Infield Covers
These protect the most critical infield areas while requiring less storage space and fewer deployment personnel:
- 90′ Baseline Covers – Cover the basepaths and immediate infield area
- Home-to-Second Covers – Protect the most heavily used center portion of the infield
- Sectional Systems – Multiple smaller tarps that connect to provide full coverage
Material Matters: Making the Right Choice
The material of your infield tarp significantly impacts its performance, durability, and handling characteristics. We only offer 18oz pro vinyl for their significantly better longevity.
Vinyl Tarps
- Advantages – Greater durability, superior water resistance, longer lifespan (7-10 years)
- Considerations – Heavier weight (typically 14-18oz), higher initial cost, requires more storage space
- Best For – College programs, professional facilities, and high schools with adequate storage and deployment resources
Polyethylene Tarps – Not Recommended
- Advantages – Lighter weight, easier handling, lower initial cost
- Considerations – Shorter lifespan (3-5 years), more susceptible to UV degradation
- Best For – Programs with limited storage, smaller maintenance crews, or tighter initial budgets
As we often emphasize at BaseballTips.com, “good and cheap do not go together.” While polyethylene tarps cost less initially, programs that can invest in quality vinyl tarps typically enjoy a better long-term value due to extended lifespan and superior protection.
Deployment Strategies for Maximum Effectiveness
Even the highest quality infield tarp won’t protect your field if it can’t be deployed quickly and properly when weather threatens. Successful programs develop consistent deployment protocols:
Storage Solutions
- Roller Systems – Allow tarps to be quickly unrolled across the field
- Storage Bags – Protect tarps when not in use
- Dedicated Storage Areas – Ideally covered and accessible from the field
Team Deployment
- Assigned Positions – Each person knows their specific role
- Regular Practice – Conduct occasional deployment drills
- Weather Monitoring – Designate someone to track approaching storms
- Securing Methods – Use appropriate weights, stakes, or sandbags based on your tarp type
Many programs create laminated cards with deployment instructions and position assignments to ensure consistency, especially when different staff members may be responsible for field coverage on different days.
Maintaining Your Infield Tarp Investment
Proper maintenance can dramatically extend the life of your infield tarp:
Regular Care
- Cleaning – Remove dirt and debris before storage
- Drying – Whenever possible, allow tarps to dry completely before folding/rolling
- Proper Folding/Rolling – Follow manufacturer guidelines to prevent creasing and stress points
- Damage Inspection – Regularly check for tears, holes, or seam separation
Repair and Replacement
- Patch Kits – Address small damages before they expand
- Professional Repair – Consider professional services for larger issues
- Replacement Planning – Budget for replacement every 5-10 years depending on material and conditions
Remember: your infield tarp represents a significant investment in your field’s playability. Proper care ensures you’ll maximize that investment over many seasons.
Protect Your Infield Investment Today
Your baseball infield demands proper protection against the elements. Whether you’re managing a professional facility, college program, high school field, or community diamond, the right infield tarp system can save countless hours of repair work while ensuring consistent playing conditions.
At BaseballTips.com, we understand that selecting the right infield tarp involves balancing protection needs with practical considerations like budget, storage, and deployment resources. Our team of former coaches and players can help you navigate these choices to find the perfect solution for your specific situation.
Ready to protect your diamond’s most valuable real estate? Contact our field equipment experts at 1-800-487-7432 (Monday-Friday, 10am-7pm EST) for personalized infield tarp recommendations tailored to your program’s needs and resources.