MLB Faces Backlash Over Sheer Pants in New Uniforms
As Major League Baseball (MLB) gears up to kick off its 2024 season later this month, the focus has unexpectedly shifted from player acquisitions and rule changes to a controversial aspect of the league’s new uniforms. The talk of the town has revolved around the sheer pants that players have been seen sporting during spring training.
Designed by Nike and produced by Fanatics, the new MLB uniforms have sparked a wave of criticism and mockery online due to their transparent nature. Photos of players in see-through pants began to circulate, with some fans unable to contain their disbelief at the revealing nature of the attire.
“This is a disaster,” one social media user commented, while others joked about purchasing the pants for their partners as lingerie substitutes. Even players themselves have expressed concerns about the quality and fit of the new uniforms, with some pointing out discrepancies in the designs.
Despite Nike claiming that the uniforms are lighter and more flexible, players like Colorado Rockies relief pitcher Daniel Bard have criticized the changes. Bard noted that the fabric feels different and the uniforms no longer offer the same level of customization as before, affecting their overall comfort and performance on the field.
Fanatics, the manufacturer of the uniforms, has come under fire from fans and players alike for the design and production of the controversial pants. Despite the company’s founder, Michael Rubin, defending their manufacturing process, many continue to blame Fanatics for the wardrobe malfunction.
The uproar over the see-through pants is a reflection of the shifting landscape of sportswear, with a focus on performance often overshadowing traditional aesthetics and quality. The incident also serves as a reminder of the power dynamics in the sports memorabilia market, with Fanatics being called out for its perceived monopoly on official merchandise for major sports leagues.
As MLB fans await the start of the new season, it remains to be seen whether the uniform debacle will be resolved in time. While the controversy may have dominated headlines for now, history has shown that such uproars tend to fade away as attention shifts to on-field action once the games begin.
In the meantime, the sheer pants in MLB’s new uniforms continue to be a topic of heated discussion and debate among fans, players, and critics alike.
(Source: The New York Times)