Uniform critics, rejoice: MLB is getting back to basics.
the league announced Monday that players will once again wear their primary home and away uniforms in the All-Star Game starting next year. The decision will dispense with the much-derided American League- and National League-specific uniforms and return players to representing their hometown teams at the event.
Additionally, MLB is honoring player requests to return regular season uniforms to previous quality after several player complaints. New uniforms were introduced last season as part of MLB’s partnership with Nike and Fanatics, but they were heavily criticized due to a variety of issues, including smaller lettering on the back, nearly see-through pants and gray fabric that showed visible sweat.
After a league-wide survey, MLB is responding to player criticism with changes that include larger player nameplates, embroidered sleeve patches and allowing full customization of pants. They will also use gray uniforms made from material used in 2023 for the next season, before introducing newly produced uniforms in 2026.
In terms of the All-Star Game, MLB is not completely getting rid of the league’s uniforms, according to MLB.com: Players will continue to wear a special All-Star uniform during training day. Players watching the Home Run Derby will also wear the All-Star uniform, while those competing in the Derby will wear their home uniform. MLB is also creating an All-Star cap for the event.
MLB’s deal with Nike and Fanatics hasn’t gone entirely as planned so far. In addition to the criticism over the 2024 uniforms, the decision to make the All-Star uniforms has not been as successful as expected. The uniforms were implemented in 2021 and have been largely unpopular with fans and players.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has addressed both issues this season. tell journalists Before the 2024 All-Star Game in July, he was open to the idea of making changes for next season.
“We have a lot of things related to the uniform,” Manfred said. “Obviously the conversations have to involve the players, first and foremost, Nike and some of our partners, but I’m aware of the sentiment and I know why people like that tradition. There will be conversations about that.”
Now, it appears those conversations have caused MLB to return to things that worked in the past.