How to Dry Waterlogged Baseballs

The hide, stitches, yarn and cork that make up a baseball weigh approximately five ounces; the perfect weight for the high-velocity game. Throwing and hitting a heavier, waterlogged ball is dangerous and could lead to injury. And while you may dry a waterlogged ball's cover to the touch, the ball will remain heavy and unplayable. Separate waterlogged baseballs that you've dried and reserve them for low-velocity, non-throwing exercises like soft toss.

Cook the Baseballs

If you live in an arid part of the country, you may be able to dry the balls by leaving them out in a dark place, such as a garage. Placing them in direct sunlight will shrink the hide of the ball, giving the ball a harder, papery feel. Or you can heat an oven to 180 degrees. Place the balls on the middle oven rack and bake for four to five hours. Baking them at a relatively low temperature will prevent shrinkage.