As the 2024 MLB All-Star Game kicked off, the uniforms once again sparked widespread criticism from fans and media alike. The generic American and National League jerseys worn by players and coaches during the Midsummer Classic have not been well-received.
The main points of contention include the clunky logos on the jerseys and the matching colors of the jerseys and pants—beige for the AL and black for the NL—which many fans say resemble pajamas or softball league outfits. While white and gray work well for home and away uniforms, these other colors have not hit the mark.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred addressed the issue earlier on Tuesday, suggesting that changes might be on the horizon for the 2025 All-Star Game. He mentioned his preference for All-Star-specific jerseys over individual team uniforms but acknowledged the ongoing debate. “I’m aware of the sentiment on this issue,” Manfred said, according to The Athletic’s Tyler Kepner. “I think where my head is on it, it’s something we’re going to have a conversation about coming out of the All-Star Game.”
Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryce Harper is one All-Star advocating for a return to individual team uniforms. Speaking during Monday’s workout day, the eight-time All-Star expressed his nostalgia for the old tradition. “If we could change back to that, I think it would be really cool,” Harper told the Los Angeles Times’ Bill Shaikin.
The shift to AL and NL uniforms began as part of MLB’s deal with Nike and Fanatics in 2019, with the goal of attracting younger and new fans. According to Shaikin, the league did not consult players before implementing the change in 2021.
Nike has already faced intense scrutiny for this season’s uniforms, which featured mismatched shades between jerseys and pants, smaller nameplates, and materials that players found uncomfortable. Changes are planned for next season, but for now, uniform criticism has permeated baseball’s midseason showcase.
“We’ve got a lot of uniform things going on,” Manfred said. “Obviously, the conversations have to involve the players, first and foremost, and Nike and some of our partners, but I am aware of the sentiment, and I do know why people kind of like that tradition. There will be conversations about that.”
