Fanatics founder Michael Rubin has responded to the widespread criticism surrounding the new Major League Baseball uniforms manufactured by his company, stating they are being unfairly blamed for issues like see-through pants and poor fit. Rubin addressed the controversy at the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference, emphasizing that Fanatics is merely producing the uniforms to the exact specifications provided by MLB and Nike.
“This is a little bit of a difficult position,” Rubin admitted on Friday. “We’re purely doing exactly as we’ve been told, and we’ve been told we’re doing everything exactly right. And we’re getting the s— kicked out of us. So that’s not fun.” His comments come as the new Fanatics Baseball Uniforms face backlash from both players and fans since spring training began.
Player Discontent with New MLB Jerseys
Reports from spring training indicate significant player dissatisfaction with the redesigned uniforms. A primary concern revolves around the fit of the new jerseys and pants. Furthermore, the white pants, in particular, have been criticized for being see-through, revealing tucked-in jerseys underneath.
Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Trea Turner voiced the general sentiment among players, stating, “I know everyone hates them. We all liked what we had. We understand business, but I think everyone wanted to keep it the same way, for the most part, with some tweaks here or there.” These remarks highlight a clear disconnect between the players’ preferences and the new fanatics baseball uniforms.
Nike’s Design Role in Uniform Changes
Rubin clarified that Fanatics’ role is strictly manufacturing, and the design and specifications originate from Nike, in collaboration with MLB. He explained that Nike initiated the uniform changes with the intention of improving performance, responding to player feedback requesting more breathable and stretchable materials.
“Nike designs everything. Hands us a spec and says, ‘Make this,’” Rubin stated. “We have made everything exactly to the spec, And Nike and baseball would say ‘Yes, you’ve done everything we’ve asked you do to.’” This places the responsibility for the design and material choices squarely on Nike and MLB, rather than fanatics baseball uniforms‘ manufacturing process.
Addressing the Controversy and Future Steps for Baseball Uniforms
Rubin suggested that part of the issue might be players adjusting to change, drawing parallels to similar initial reactions when NFL and NBA uniforms were updated. He also indicated a willingness to involve a broader range of stakeholders in future uniform decisions to avoid similar controversies.
“They got certain players on board, not all players on board. When you change something so old and so nostalgic you need everybody to be on board with it,” Rubin commented. “I believe Nike will be proved right.” However, this perspective contrasts with the current widespread negative reception of the fanatics baseball uniforms.
Tony Clark, head of the MLB Players Association, confirmed that players have voiced their concerns. “The commentary that’s being offered suggests that the powers that be are paying attention to the concerns that are there and are engaging how best to address them moving forward,” Clark said on Thursday, indicating that MLB is aware of and responding to the uniform issues.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the new MLB uniforms highlights a disconnect between design choices and player preferences. While Fanatics maintains they are producing uniforms to spec, the negative feedback persists, prompting discussions about future design and implementation processes for fanatics baseball uniforms and the importance of player input in such changes.
