Hardball heroes: as the game evolves so does the equipment. Take these baseball essentials, all sure to give you an edge on any diamond this summer

Men's Fitness, June-July, 2007 by Nate Millado

LOUISVILLE SLUGGER TPX M9 WOOD BAT

You may recognize this bat from the hands of heavy hitters like Ken Griffey Jr. and the hundreds of other MLB players who swing with Slugers--that's because this hard-maple bat is a dense and durable home-run hitting machine. $100@louisvilleslugger.com

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EASTON STEALTH COMP CNT BAT

The Stealth Comp CNT is one of the most advanced bats ever made tech construction that is 16 times stronger than steel allowing for a bigger sweet spot and deeper shots into he outfield. $399@eastonports.com

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EASTON E-PRO 81 BALL GLOVE

For catching bullets, you need a bulletproof mitt. That's why the K-Pro from Easton is made with a super-strong Kevlar backing. The 13-inch outfield pattern makes it the ideal ball glove for catching line drives and deep shots, $199@easton sports.com

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RAWLING PRO PREFERRED 50TH ANNIVERSARY SERIES

Rawlings mitts are built with strong laces and comfortable, natural materials, like 100% wool padding, deerskin lining, and smooth full-grain leather. And with me gold-patch labels, someone might mistake you for Jeter in the infield, $299@ rawlings.com

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MIZUNO 9-SPIKE PRO LIMITED G4 CLEATS

Mizuno uses the same technology in their high-end running shoes that they use in these pro-level cleats, which give you added cushioning and stability whether you're running the bases or just watching the grass grow in left field. $100@mizunousa.com

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KAENON HARD KORE

Lose the ball in the sun one you'll be sure to botch an easy pop-fly out. The Hard Kore is designed for serious performance athletes--it's durable and lightweight, it fits securely, and it's Rx adaptable. $199@kaenon.com

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NIKE SPHERE ELITE

When you step to the plate, your grip on the bat could make the difference between a quick trip to first and a casual jog around the bases. Nike's Sphere Elite will keep your hands cool and dry while offering a superior feel. $45@nike.com

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12 Number of home runs all-time leader Hank Aaron hit in his 22nd MLB season [the dozen homers brought his total to 745]. How many will Barry- Bonds hit during his 22nd season?

FIT TIP

THE 3-D LUNGE

Scoop grounders like a pro with this move from Jeff Cavaliere, C.S.C.S., assistant strength coach for the New York Mets.

How to Do It ...

[1] Grab a pair of light dumbbells (no more than 10 pounds) and stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Perform a lunge with one leg while bending at the trunk and reaching forward, placing the dumbbells next to your front foot. Alternate each leg for six reps before moving to the side lunges.

[2] Keeping your toes straight ahead lunge to one side and reach down with the dumbbells, one on either side of the lunging foot. Keep the trailing leg straight and alternate six on each leg.

[3] Finish up the circuit with a rotation lunge. Open up your hips and drop your lunging foot to the left or right (following the diagram), and again, try to place the dumbbells next to your lead foot. Perform six alternating reps, rest 60-90 seconds, and then perform the sequence one more time.