What the discerning baseball fan is wearing for the playoff push
For casual baseball fans this week's trade deadline doesn't mean much. But, it does signal the last two months of the regular season, so check the standings because it could be your cue to become a certified bandwagon fan. And the best part? It's your excuse to stock up on some of the best brands who've gotten into the MLB merch game.
This season started with Carhartt and '47 collaborating to celebrate the sport's die-hard fans with a workwear inspired collection. Unfortunately, it went fast, but plenty of other companies have beefed up their lineup so that that you can visit one of baseball's cathedrals this fall without looking like you stepped off the set of The Sandlot in jean-shorts and a fishing cap.
Don't get us wrong, the classic holds up, but Roosevelt's Wendy Peffercorn inspired button-down might be the only clothing to come from The Beast's backyard that we mildly approve of. Here are some of our favorite shirts, hats and accessories from baseball's leading contenders that will help you look your best during your team's hunt for October.
Celebrate one of America's most timeless ballpark's with the game's most timeless swing. The BoSox's core is young and exciting, but a number 9 jersey in New England will endure for generations.
Ted Williams authentic mesh BP jersey,
$90 by Mitchell & Ness
Tickets to a Yankees game late in the season run steep, so you'll need more than a jersey if you're sharing an armrest with New York's elite. This Columbia vest can complement your work shirt if you don't have time between the office and the Bronx.
Columbia zip vest, $114.99 / $91.99 at Fanatics
LeBron James helped put Homage on the map with his Ultimate Warrior shirt for the Cavs' championship parade. This Ohio-based company has plenty of Indians gear celebrating their park formally known as "The Jake." Plus, you might not want to be wearing that logo—you know what we mean.
Jacobs Field T-shirt,
$32 by Homage
Five years after officially going retro with their logo, the Astros won their first World Series. Avoid the blistering Texas nights with this archival hat that's made from a cool, breathable cotton/poly blend, not wool.
'47 franchise cap,
$29.99 at Lids
Last summer, we praised Herschel for their backpacks. This year, they went full "brotherly love" with this understated Phillies red gym bag. Big enough for your boxing gloves, tape, mouth guard and whatever else you need to train to beat Drago.
Logo duffel bag,
$99.99 by Herschel Supply Co.
Fall nights in Los Angeles can drop from the high 70s to the high 60s. It's a tough life out there. This ultra-soft cotton blend long sleeve tee, with its slightly distressed vintage-inspired graphics should be all you need to head down into Chavez Ravine.
Tai-Blend T-shirt,
$39.99 at MLB Shop
There are only a dozen nice days in Chicago, so outerwear will get more playing time. Seattle's Ebbet's has some of the best historically accurate gear available including items from Weeghman Park, home of the Federal League's Chicago Whales. It's an obscure piece, but it beats having the same '16 World Series shirt as everyone else in Wrigleyville.
Whales ground crew jacket, $125 / $100 by Ebbets Field Flannels
In recognition of its 50th anniversary in the baseball card business, Topps has brought gum back in a special set of cards it calls its Heritage collection.
$19.99 by Topps
