Following up on discussions about fixes for MLB uniform issues, it’s time to address another glaring problem: the generic, and frankly, ugly, uniforms of the MLB All-Star Game. For the past three years, these uniforms have been a significant misstep, detracting from the celebration of baseball’s best players. It’s time for MLB and Nike to reconsider this approach and revert to a much better tradition.
As Tyler Kepner eloquently argued in The Athletic, the current All-Star Game uniforms are a “maddening monument to short-sighted greed.” Instead of showcasing the individual stars and their respective teams, MLB has opted for generic American and National League jerseys. This decision sacrifices the visual appeal of seeing players in their recognizable team colors and logos, a tradition that fans cherish. The very purpose of the All-Star Game – to highlight the greatness of individual players – is undermined when they are clad in unidentifiable, generic uniforms. It prioritizes showcasing a Nike product over celebrating the players themselves.
Consider the visual difference. Which is more appealing: a lineup of players in generic AL uniforms where individual team affiliations are lost, or a lineup like the 2016 All-Star Game in San Diego, bursting with team colors and recognizable faces?
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25427094/577133634.jpg)
The 2016 image showcases the charm and distinctiveness of team jerseys. Conversely, the generic uniforms, such as those from the 2022 All-Star Game at Dodger Stadium, are widely considered visually unappealing.
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25427098/1242007862.jpg)
These 2022 uniforms, in my view, are simply awful. While the intention behind generic jerseys might be to boost merchandise sales, this approach is misguided. MLB can still capitalize on merchandise opportunities by having players wear league jerseys during workout days and the Home Run Derby. However, for the All-Star Game itself, the focus should be on celebrating the individual players and their teams. Bringing back team jerseys for the Midsummer Classic would allow fans to easily identify and connect with their favorite stars, enhancing the overall experience.
It’s time for MLB to prioritize the fans and the spirit of the All-Star Game over purely commercial interests. Let’s hope they heed the call and “just do it” – revert to team jerseys and ditch the ugly, generic All-Star uniforms.
