As Spring Training workouts and games have gotten underway, the new MLB jerseys by Nike have garnered growing criticism from players.
Developed over several years, the tested and refined Nike Vapor Premier jerseys were engineered to improve mobility, according to details released by Nike. The design was first unveiled during the 2023 MLB All-Star Game, which didn’t generate many complaints or attention over the new look.
But the start of Spring Training brought on an outpouring of negative feedback for Nike and purported manufacture, Fanatics. The displeasure has much to do with the perceived decline in quality, which has prompted the Major League Baseball Players Association to step in, per Sam Blum of The Athletic:
The Major League Baseball Players Association is working to see if adjustments can be made to the league’s new uniforms, following a firestorm of negative reviews at the outset of spring training last week.
Although a change away from the current model is highly unlikely, the MLBPA is doing all they can to be at the front of any possible corrections.
Many players who have openly endorsed the jerseys have connections to Nike, which is a strong point to note with how the brand could be working to soften the immense blowback.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred reiterated that the jerseys were a Nike product, not having to do with Fanatics, despite public perception. Although Nike is in control of MLB uniforms, their takeover in manufacturing isn’t to blame for the drop in quality, according to Manfred.
Manfred noted that fans and players would need time to get used to the change, offering no initial thoughts on reverting to the old jersey model.
Jason Heyward approves of new Dodgers jersey by Nike
Among the many negative reviews of the jersey change, Jason Heyward is one member of the Dodgers who publicly endorsed the uniform swap.
Heyward explained his stance by noting the authentic feel of the material, which he called a much nicer design. The veteran outfielder is a fan of the new change in how the number feels on the back of the jersey.
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