The 2020 season marks the beginning of Nike becoming the exclusive provider of MLB on-field uniforms, including baselayers, game-day outerwear and training apparel. It adds to the brand already holding apparel contracts with the NFL and NBA.
The 10-year agreement takes the place of one MLB previously agreed to with Under Armour, who backed out of the agreement last year. It also stems from a partnership between MLB, Nike and Fanatics.
“Nike’s global brand and reputation as a leader in driving innovation makes them an ideal partner,” MLB commissioner Robert Manfred said when the contract with Nike was announced in January.
In addition to securing licensing rights, Nike remains an official MLB sponsor, supporting league initiatives, grassroots marketing and fan events. Nike, as part of the new agreement, will partner with all 30 teams and promote its brand and products across MLB media assets, including MLB Network, MLB.com and MLB Social.
While some teams, such as the Cincinnati Reds, Milwaukee Brewers and Texas Rangers, are using the 2020 season to unveil new jersey designs for the start of the 2020 season, the Los Angeles Dodgers are keeping with their traditional look.
One noticeable difference, however, is the inclusion of a Swoosh on the right shoulder. Nike’s branding will be present on the jersey for all clubs.
“We’re excited to kick off our partnership with Major League Baseball with the unveil of next season’s uniforms,” said Hal Melhart, Senior product line manager for Nike Diamond.
“Each franchise has a deeply personal history, with a visual identity that continues in this update. In the future, we look forward to preserving this integrity while still bringing more of Nike’s creativity to uniform designs, as we build energy around the game for its players and its fans.”
Nike currently has endorsement relationships with more than 500 MLB and Minor League players, including Mike Trout, Giancarlo Stanton, George Springer, Jose Ramirez, Max Scherzer, Jacob deGrom, Javier Baez and Nolan Arenado.
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