Nike has announced that from the start of the 2020 season, it will become the exclusive provider of Major League Baseball’s on-field jerseys, including baselayers, game-day outerwear and training apparel.
As part of the agreement, Nike will also continue as an official MLB sponsor, supporting league initiatives, grassroots marketing and fan events. It means Nike will partner with all 30 MLB Clubs and promote its brand and products across MLB media assets, including MLB Network, MLB.com and MLB Social.
Major League Baseball Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr emphasised: “Nike’s global brand and reputation as a leader in driving innovation makes them an ideal partner.”
Nike currently has endorsement relationships with more than 500 MLB and Minor League players, including Mike Trout, Giancarlo Stanton, George Springer, Jose Ramirez, Max Scherzer, Jacob deGrom, Javier Baez and Nolan Arenado.
Tom Peddie, VP/GM of Nike North America added: “We’re thrilled to bring more innovation and creativity to Major League Baseball and the incredible athletes who play the game. This is an exciting time for baseball, and we look forward to partnering with MLB to grow the sport both across America as well as around the globe.”
The deal strengthens Nike’s position as a leader in US sports, with it now, with it now in exclusive partnerships with the National Football League (NFL) and the National Basketball Association (NBA).
