As teams reported for the start of Spring Training last week, most players got their first look at the new Nike Vapor Premier jerseys that will be worn during the 2024 MLB season.
Nike claims the new threads were engineered to improve mobility, moisture management and fit, while keeping sustainability in mind. However, many players and fans on social media have spoken out about not being pleased with the changes.
According to multiple reports, the jerseys are being manufactured by Fanatics in a partnership with Nike and manufacturing them in the same Pennsylvania factory where the old Majestic uniforms were made. It’s also been reported that Nike is just leasing their logo to Fanatics and putting the merchandise company in control of the uniforms.
Fanatics has a poor reputation among many sports fans for their poor quality materials and lack of quality control, which led many to believe the issues with the jerseys are solely on them.
However, MLB commissioner Rob Manfred clarified to reporters during Grapefruit League media day that the new jerseys are designed by Nike, not Fanatics, via ESPN’s David Schoenfield:
“We always pay attention to what people are saying about any new initiative. As you know in baseball, with any new initiative there’s going to be some negative feedback,” Manfred said. “First and most important, these are Nike jerseys. We entered into this partnership with Nike because of who they are and the kinds of products they produce.”
While the consensus among players and fans is that the new jerseys have declined in quality, Jason Heyward believes they feel more authentic and praised the materials of the fabric.
According to Nike, the high-performance fabric of the new template was made from at least 90% recycled polyester yarns and provides 25% more stretch and allows the jersey to dry 28% faster with moisture-wicking Dri-Fit ADV technology.
Some other players joined Heyward, including Mike Trout and Adley Rutschman, to speak out in support of Nike’s new jerseys, but it’s important to note all of them have connections to Nike through other deals, leading many to believe the company put on a PR campaign after the backlash.
Other players have reached out to the MLB Players Association to express their concerns with the new uniforms, but it remains to be seen if MLB will step in and force changes or let the situation play out.
Rob Manfred retiring as MLB commissioner
While speaking to reporters, Manfred revealed that he intends to step down as MLB commissioner when his contract expires in January 2029. He has served in the role since replacing Bud Selig in January 2015.
It’s unclear who will replace Manfred as new MLB commissioner. One potential candidate is deputy commissioner Dan Halem, who has been in his current role since 2017.
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