Red Sox Embroiled in 2026 Home Jersey Controversy

Team acknowledges issues with new jersey design, blames themselves and then Fanatics before clarifying.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Boston Red Sox found themselves in a three-part saga over a jersey design mishap for their 2026 home uniforms. The team initially acknowledged issues with the new jerseys, where the front of the 'D' in 'Red' and 'S' in 'Sox' were stitched directly over the red piping. The team then issued multiple statements, first blaming themselves and then attempting to shift blame to their jersey manufacturer Fanatics, before ultimately clarifying that the original design was selected by the Red Sox.

Why it matters

The Red Sox jersey controversy highlights the challenges teams face in maintaining their brand identity and fan goodwill when dealing with uniform changes. It also shines a light on the complex relationships between teams, leagues, and their apparel partners. The team's handling of the issue has drawn criticism from fans and media figures.

The details

The issues with the new Red Sox home jerseys included the 'D' and 'S' letters being stitched directly over the red piping, as well as the Nike swoosh being much closer to the red piping compared to previous seasons. The team initially took responsibility for the design flaws, saying they were 'adjusting the home whites to achieve [more] separation' between the lettering and piping. However, the Red Sox later issued a revised statement attempting to shift blame to Fanatics, the company that produces MLB's on-field jerseys, before ultimately clarifying that the original design was selected by the team.

  • The Red Sox acknowledged the jersey issues on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
  • The team issued multiple statements over the following days to address the controversy.

The players

Boston Red Sox

The professional baseball team based in Boston, Massachusetts that plays in Major League Baseball.

Fanatics

The company that produces the on-field jerseys for Major League Baseball teams.

Dave Portnoy

The founder of Barstool Sports and an avid Boston sports fan who criticized the Red Sox's handling of the jersey controversy.

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What they’re saying

“Did the Red Sox just post and delete a tweet saying their Fanatics jerseys sucked?”

— Dave Portnoy, Barstool Sports founder (Twitter)

“To be clear, the original design was selected by the Red Sox. Fanatics executed to our specifications and has been an outstanding partner throughout. They deserve no blame and we are grateful to them for making the new jerseys in time for Opening Day.”

— Boston Red Sox (Twitter)

What’s next

The Red Sox are expected to have the updated jerseys ready for the start of the 2026 MLB season.

The takeaway

The Red Sox jersey controversy highlights the delicate balance teams must strike between maintaining their brand identity and working with apparel partners, as well as the importance of clear communication when addressing uniform issues. The team's handling of the situation has drawn criticism, but they ultimately took responsibility for the original design choice.