As teams gear up for the new season, an unexpected uniform issue has emerged across Major League Baseball: see-through pants. Initially highlighted with the Seattle Mariners, it’s now evident that this isn’t an isolated incident but a league-wide phenomenon affecting numerous teams.
During the annual Photo Days and in circulating team photos, the transparency of the new Nike-manufactured pants is becoming increasingly apparent. Across various MLB teams, the underlying jersey, including its jock tag, is visibly showing through the pants. While the severity varies, possibly due to differing lighting conditions, the issue is undeniably present for a significant number of teams.
Here’s a look at some of the teams where the see-through pants problem has been observed:
Teams Affected by Uniform Transparency
The issue spans across several MLB franchises, indicating a widespread concern with the new uniform design.
Los Angeles Angels
St. Louis Cardinals
For more visuals of the Cardinals and other teams, you can explore additional photos from MLB Photo Day.
Los Angeles Dodgers
Baltimore Orioles
San Diego Padres
Tampa Bay Rays
More images of the Tampa Bay Rays and other teams are available online.
Boston Red Sox
Further Red Sox and team photos can be found in online galleries.
Cincinnati Reds
Explore more photos of the Cincinnati Reds and other MLB teams online.
Chicago White Sox
New York Yankees
While the list above showcases a range of affected teams, it’s important to note that some teams, including the Houston Astros, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Texas Rangers, appear to be utilizing last year’s pants for Photo Day. This is discernible from differences in belt loop designs. Player feedback regarding the fit and feel of the new pants, particularly compared to the jerseys, has been largely negative. This could explain why these teams opted against the new design, potentially due to both comfort and the see-through issue.
Is This a New Uniform Problem?
Interestingly, an update reveals that this might not be an entirely new issue exclusive to the 2024 uniforms. Even photos from the Houston Astros’ Photo Day, seemingly using older pants, exhibit the same transparency problem.
Furthermore, transparency issues have been observed in previous years’ MLB Photo Days. While perceptions suggest the see-through effect might be more pronounced this year, it’s crucial to consider that consistent lighting conditions during Photo Days could be a contributing factor to the visibility of the underlying jerseys. This broader perspective suggests that while the 2024 MLB uniform pants are facing scrutiny, the issue of transparency may be a recurring element influenced by factors beyond just the fabric itself.
In conclusion, the see-through pants issue in MLB uniforms is a developing story that affects numerous teams. While the extent and novelty of the problem are still under discussion, it’s clear that uniform transparency is a concern that warrants attention from manufacturers, teams, and fans alike. The interplay of uniform design, fabric, and even photo lighting conditions likely contributes to this ongoing issue.