Nike expected to alter MLB uniforms by 2025 after complaints
The changes will be instituted by the beginning of the 2025 season, at the very latest.
After numerous complaints from fans and players, Nike is set to make significant changes to its new Major League Baseball uniforms before the 2025 season begins, according to a memo obtained on Sunday. The memo, sent by the MLB Players Association to players, reveals that after weeks of discussions with the league and Nike, the union has received indications that the following modifications will be implemented: the return of larger lettering on jersey tops, and the reintroduction of previous tailoring options, seam stitch count, and higher-quality zippers that were in place in 2023. Additionally, the memo states that Nike is working towards resolving the issues of mismatching gray uniforms and sweat stains appearing through the jerseys.
The memo places the blame squarely on Nike, stating that the problems were entirely caused by the company's unnecessary attempts at innovation. It clarifies that the memo is not a direct commitment from Nike, but rather an update to players on the perceived progress towards resolving the uniform issues. The memo also clarifies that it does not promise a return to the uniforms from previous seasons. The Nike Vapor Premier, in terms of fabric and general jersey design, will remain unchanged. Nike introduced the Vapor Premier during the spring season, after initially unveiling it at the 2023 All-Star Game, but it was met with immediate backlash. Fans criticized certain design elements, most notably the unusually small lettering on the back of the jerseys. Players, on the other hand, expressed dissatisfaction with the pants fitting process and the low-quality feel of the fabric. Once the season began, sweat stains became visible, road grays were identified as having different shades, and there were issues with the pants along the seam, likely due to a change in stitch count.
The memo highlights that the players have been raising concerns about various changes, particularly regarding the pants, since Nike previewed them in 2022. The players' concerns were known to both Nike and the MLBPA. Unfortunately, Nike's response until recently has been dismissive, essentially telling players to adjust to the changes.
Both MLB and MLBPA declined to comment on the situation. The MLBPA continues to support Fanatics, the uniform manufacturer, and places the blame solely on Nike. Fanatics has faced public backlash for the uniform issues, but the memo reiterates that Fanatics has been a reliable partner in producing uniforms for the past eight years. In addition to its partnership with MLB and Nike, Fanatics also holds a lucrative licensing deal with the players union, with the MLBPA having invested in the company.
The memo concludes by expressing hope that Nike will adopt a similar approach to Fanatics in soliciting player feedback, gaining player approval, and being open to difficult conversations about jerseys and other related matters.
The memo places the blame squarely on Nike, stating that the problems were entirely caused by the company's unnecessary attempts at innovation. It clarifies that the memo is not a direct commitment from Nike, but rather an update to players on the perceived progress towards resolving the uniform issues. The memo also clarifies that it does not promise a return to the uniforms from previous seasons. The Nike Vapor Premier, in terms of fabric and general jersey design, will remain unchanged. Nike introduced the Vapor Premier during the spring season, after initially unveiling it at the 2023 All-Star Game, but it was met with immediate backlash. Fans criticized certain design elements, most notably the unusually small lettering on the back of the jerseys. Players, on the other hand, expressed dissatisfaction with the pants fitting process and the low-quality feel of the fabric. Once the season began, sweat stains became visible, road grays were identified as having different shades, and there were issues with the pants along the seam, likely due to a change in stitch count.
The memo highlights that the players have been raising concerns about various changes, particularly regarding the pants, since Nike previewed them in 2022. The players' concerns were known to both Nike and the MLBPA. Unfortunately, Nike's response until recently has been dismissive, essentially telling players to adjust to the changes.
Both MLB and MLBPA declined to comment on the situation. The MLBPA continues to support Fanatics, the uniform manufacturer, and places the blame solely on Nike. Fanatics has faced public backlash for the uniform issues, but the memo reiterates that Fanatics has been a reliable partner in producing uniforms for the past eight years. In addition to its partnership with MLB and Nike, Fanatics also holds a lucrative licensing deal with the players union, with the MLBPA having invested in the company.
The memo concludes by expressing hope that Nike will adopt a similar approach to Fanatics in soliciting player feedback, gaining player approval, and being open to difficult conversations about jerseys and other related matters.