Tampa Bay Rays unveil City Connect uniforms

The Tampa Bay Rays, known for their unconventional approach and low payroll, consistently make the playoffs by maximizing their roster. They pioneered the “opener” strategy in 2018 and continue to innovate. Their latest innovation is the City Connect uniform, blending “grit and glow” to reflect the organization’s uniqueness. Featuring elements inspired by Tampa Bay’s counterculture scenes, the uniform highlights skateboarding, a key aspect of the city’s underground community. References to Tampa’s skateboarding history, including the iconic “Bro Bowl,” are integrated into the design. The uniform also pays homage to the city’s baseball heritage, with nods to the St. Petersburg Pelicans and the “Devil Rays” era.

The uniform’s gradient accents pay homage to the old Devil Ray look, with a stripe running from the right sleeve to the left pant. According to Hypes, this reflects the Rays’ innovative spirit and willingness to defy tradition. The design process with Nike began four years ago, with numerous iterations before settling on the final version. Initially, there were hundreds of ideas, but Nike helped narrow them down to a few key concepts. Players, including Pete Fairbanks and Randy Arozarena, have praised the design, with Arozarena calling them “beautiful.” Hypes noted that even those less familiar with skate culture appreciate the colors and story behind the uniform, underscoring the Rays’ commitment to doing things differently.

To view the Tampa Bay Rays 2024 City Connect Jersey Collection, please click HERE.