Spring training is finally upon us as we get set to welcome in a brand-new baseball season.
While seeming radical at first, the rule changes that were implemented last year turned out to be a smashing success (for the most part).
Now, there’s a new change to the fabric of the game (pun intended), which has shocked the vast majority of the baseball world.
No, it has nothing to do with ACTUAL baseball … It’s the new (and not improved) Nike Vapor Premier uniforms, which were designed by Nike and manufactured by Fanatics.
The new Fanatics/Nike MLB uniforms look like players moms got the jerseys on clearance at TJ Maxx. pic.twitter.com/CFYA6gElEa
— Korked Bats (@korkedbats) February 14, 2024
Other than a minority of players who have spoken favorably of the uniforms (perhaps because they have a relationship with Nike), many players are shocked at how poorly designed and downright “cheap” the uniforms are.
After seeing the names on the back of the current MLB uniforms, I finally remembered where I saw those name templates before.
Anyone heard of the game MLB 9 Innings? Well….
Let’s look at a real life comparison to the game comparison pic.twitter.com/PnRY3YRfIo
— STL Dysfunct.⚾ Fan | Ready for Reg SZN (@STLfan006457) February 15, 2024
One of the primary grievances voiced by players (and fans) revolves around the diminutive lettering on the uniforms.
Images circulating on social media, including those of White Sox pitcher Michael Kopech sporting the new uniform, illustrate the markedly reduced size of the lettering, drawing widespread criticism.
— James Fegan (@JRFegan) February 14, 2024
Comparisons between last year’s uniforms and these new ones put in perspective just how drastically different the two are.
Last year vs this year’s replica jersey offerings from the fine folks at MLB, Nike & Fanatics. Last year’s being on the left and this year’s on the right.
I have a lot to say, so bear with me here.
Let’s just rip the bandaid off right away with this year’s new jersey offerings pic.twitter.com/3IShhlj0nL
— Bobby Mullins (@TheBobbyMullins) February 11, 2024
Chicago Cubs shortstop (and Nike endorser) Dansby Swanson revealed that he has engaged in discussions with Nike regarding the contentious changes.
“It’s one of those things where there’s good and bad,” Swanson recently told The Athletic. “There’s stuff on both sides, and I think the beauty is they’re willing to have those conversations.”
this year, Nike/Fanatics/MLB expect you to purchase these new jerseys & enjoy it. They have basically sold you a shirsey with buttons for the fantastic price of $175 before tax at Team Store. Versatility at its finest. Look like a little leaguer while you pay big league prices.
— Bobby Mullins (@TheBobbyMullins) February 11, 2024
Complaints extend beyond aesthetics, with players expressing discontent over the fit of the uniforms, particularly the pants.
Photos shared on social media depict players donning the new attire, accompanied by captions denoting discomfort and dissatisfaction with the fabric and fit.
“They look cheap,” a player said.
This is what the back of the white jerseys look like with the new template. Players are pretty unhappy. Miles Mikolas says they also don’t fit right; pants are no longer as customized, and the fabric is a very different consistency.
“They look cheap,” another player said. pic.twitter.com/UoH4vVHTfd
— Jeff Jones (@jmjones) February 13, 2024
The MLB Players Association has taken note of these grievances, reportedly receiving complaints from its members and actively engaging in dialogue with the league to address concerns.
They cut corners and increased prices, citing demand & inflation as causes for the incremental price hikes. The materials for the actual jersey are not bad, but not great either. Just ok, and thats fine on a replica jersey. They eliminated the majority of stitching on the jerseys
— Bobby Mullins (@TheBobbyMullins) February 11, 2024
What are your thoughts on the new uniforms?
It’s hard to deny that they look extremely cheap.
From a player’s perspective, comfortability is the most important thing. However, the vast majority of the players seem to hate them.
Will Nike/Fanatics end up fixing their mistake???
(Or do you not care about stupid uniforms and rather talk real baseball?!?)
Lololol game promo giveaway jerseys.
— Shingo (@sifitkammfp) February 15, 2024
