Despite MLB’s best efforts to promote the new Nike Vapor Premier uniforms, the overwhelming reaction from players has been negative. The MLBPA is also echoing that sentiment.
After hearing complaints over the cheap look and lack of customizable fits, the MLBPA is taking action in hopes of working out the issues with Nike and Fanatics. As part of the 10-year uniform deal MLB struck in 2020, Nike designs the uniforms for Fanatics — a sports apparel giant with a shoddy reputation — to produce.
Speaking to The Athletic this week, union executive director Tony Clark admitted that they are frustrated with the uniforms. He said:
“Any time there’s change, there’s an adjustment period. Sometimes that adjustment period goes well, sometimes not so much. In this instance, there appear to be some misses that could have otherwise not been misses.”
He continued:
“We are on the phone with the requisite parties that are involved in making that decision because we aren’t. We’re trying to make sure our guys have what they need in the fashion that they need it. And it’s reflective of what being a major-league ballplayer should be reflective of.”
While it’s almost certainly too late to make any changes to the retail versions of the jerseys, there is hope that something can be done to improve the on-field jerseys in time for Opening Day. Specifically, players aren’t pleased with the smaller (and more curved) name plate, lack of stitching and overall feel for the uniforms. They’d also want to be able to tailor the pants to their liking as they used to be able to.
We’ll have to see if something can get done in time, but the looks across spring training have not been great.
