If you get up close, you’ll notice that there are Spring Training designs and logos within the white part of the numbers and letters on the back. Hardly noticeable for someone viewing from the stands, but it’s a pretty cool concept. It’s been used mostly on college basketball jerseys, and occasionally MLB All-Star jerseys. Overall, I think it’s a lateral move from the old jerseys. It’s essentially the same overall concept, and that concept is decent at best. My fix, to spice up the average, is pictured left. It’s just a simple change to the color of the “Phillies” script on the front. That was posted by “PhilliesPhan1325” on SportsLogos.net.
Now, onto the hat. The jersey could be better, sure, but the hat is a serious downgrade from the old Spring Training hat. (Note: At this time, it is unclear whether the new caps will also be used for batting practice during the regular season. It would be odd to have an “FL” patch on normal BP hats.) I firmly believe that a red logo on a red background isn’t a good look on a hat, just like it isn’t a good look on a jersey.
In addition to that, several other teams have alternate logos on their new Spring Training hats. The Rays are using their alternate logo that looks like a firework, the Mets are using their “Mr. Met” logo, and the Athletics are using their elephant logo. And there are many others. This could’ve been a great opportunity for the Phillies to utilize the Liberty Bell logo that they almost never use. They use it on shirts and hats on MLB licensed apparel, but not on any part of their uniform.
So what do you think? Do you like the new Spring Training jersey and hat for the Phillies? Have any other alternate ideas? Offer your thoughts in the comments section.