At this year’s All-Star Game in Arlington, Texas, Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper expressed his dissatisfaction with the jerseys worn by players during the event. He voiced a desire to return to the traditional home and road jerseys that had been a staple of the game for decades.
“If we could change back to that, I think it would be really cool,” Harper said.
On Monday, Harper’s wish was granted as MLB announced a significant change. Starting in 2025, when the All-Star Game takes place at Truist Park in Atlanta, National League players, including any Phillies All-Stars, will wear their regular home white uniforms, since Atlanta is a National League park. This marks a return to the traditional format used from the 1930s until 2019.
The change comes after MLB shifted to custom jerseys in 2021 as part of a 10-year, $1 billion deal with Nike, which had introduced specially-designed uniforms for the All-Star Game. Players wore these jerseys during the game, while sporting their normal team uniforms for the Home Run Derby. However, the new look didn’t resonate with fans or players. Commissioner Rob Manfred acknowledged the sentiment after Harper’s comments, noting that the league was considering a return to traditional uniforms.
Along with this shift, MLB announced another change: the return to the fabric and lettering style used before Nike introduced its Vapor Premier jersey design, which was intended to improve mobility but received criticism for its smaller lettering and numbers. Starting with road uniforms, the transition will be complete by 2026, with players set to enjoy larger lettering, embroidered sleeve patches, and full pant customization once again.
Players in the Home Run Derby will continue to wear their regular team uniforms, while workout day and other activities will still feature specially-designed uniforms.
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