Major League Baseball is contemplating a return to having players wear their team uniforms for the All-Star Game. From 1933-2019, the American League and the National League used club uniforms, but in 2021, following a one-year hiatus due to the pandemic, MLB introduced specially designed league uniforms in partnership with Nike and Fanatics, sparking criticism from traditionalists. The 2021 American League All-Star uniforms featured a sandy base with red accents, while the National League uniforms had a navy base with light blue details.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred acknowledged the sentiment surrounding the issue and stated that discussions regarding the uniforms would take place after this year’s All-Star Game. Criticism was directed at MLB and Nike for the club uniforms worn this year, which prompted plans to enhance the 2025 club outfits with larger lettering on the back of jerseys and personalized pant customization to address player concerns about see-through white pants revealing tucked-in jersey tops.
Manfred also mentioned the possibility of a national streaming package for local television broadcasts in the future, exploring a potential 30-club model. Acknowledging the shift towards streaming as traditional regional sports networks face challenges, MLB took over the production of Arizona and San Diego local television broadcasts last year following Bally networks’ bankruptcy. Manfred highlighted the growing interest in streaming services offering more nationally inclusive products.
Regarding the low offensive output in baseball, Manfred acknowledged the decrease in offense and the dominance of pitching in the game. While offensive levels have improved from earlier in the season, MLB continues to monitor the situation to determine if intervention is required. Additionally, following a successful game between the San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama, MLB plans to return to the historic ballpark, although specific details of the event are yet to be finalized.
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