Uni Watch » Red Menace

Red Menace

Many of you have made it abundantly clear in recent months that you don’t like to mix sports with politics. To which I can only say, be glad you don’t live in Venezuela, where baseball uniforms and politics have recently intersected in a particularly absurd manner. Reader Pablo Souki, a Venezuelan native who now lives in the States, explains:

Venezuela has been deeply split along political lines since 1998, when Hugo Chávez was first elected President. Everything in Venezuela is seen through politics, and it has split the country into “Chavistas” (Chávez supporters) and the opposition. There is no middle ground — people either love Chávez or they hate him. … [I]f I had to come up with an analogy, I’d say every politician in Venezuela behaves like Ann Coulter or Al Franken. And non-politicians do, too.

In the middle of this madness, Chávez and his party have decided they own the color red. Everything having to do with the Government is referred to as “red.” [For example], the most recent presidential elections in Venezuela were in early December of 2006. Chávez’s campaign color was, of course, red. This was December, so Caracas was full of Christmas decorations. That means in some anti-Chávez areas, Santa was dressed in blue, and red decorations were avoided altogether. That’s how badly some people react to red things now in Caracas.

So along comes the 07-08 baseball season, and the Caracas Lions roll out their new BP jerseys, and they are red. Brick red, actually, a lot like the Astros’ alternates, as Lions President Ariel Prat pointed out. Still, people are really upset, and the blogosphere is raging. Conspiracy theorists claim this is proof that the club’s owner is pro-Chávez. In truth, everyone in the country already knew that, so I don’t know what the fuss is about. But there are crazies threatening to quit following the team. For real. All of this over BP jerseys.

(Of course, a better reason to protest the Lions’ uniforms is that they have ads instead of nameplates (as do many Central and South American teams). For a refreshing corrective, click through the gallery of Lions uni history available here.)

About a week after I got Pablo’s note, I got a communiqué from Al Cummings, who told a similar tale:

In August I went to a friend’s wedding in Nicaragua and was bumping around in my Phillies (2007 Eastern Division Champs) cap. I got a lot of waves and nods of approval, and I thought it was because Nicaragua native Vicente Padilla had played for the Phils. My friend explained a red cap signifies my solidarity with the Sandanistas, still a major issue in that polarized country.

Hmmm, think they put that in the travel guides? Big thanks to Pablo and Al for their eye-opening tales.

Hall Monitor: One item from the weekend that I missed in yesterday’s post was all the activity surrounding the Hockey Hall of Fame inductions in Toronto. For starters, the Rangers and Maple Leafs wore Hall of Fame jersey patches for their game on Saturday night — the Leafs wearing it on on the chest, the Rangers on the shoulder yoke. Then on Sunday there was the Legends Classic Game, featuring assorted geezers divided up into Original 6 and Expansion teams. Things apparently got a bit surreal when Glenn Anderson played with sparklers on his skates (and can’t you just see some Fox executive saying to himself, “Damn, why didn’t we think of that when we had the NHL contract?!”).

As for the actual inductees, their blazers are a lot nicer than the ones their NFL counterparts are forced to wear.

Uni Watch News Ticker: Great shots here and here of Greg Wesley’s helmet decal being left in tatters after a big hit (with big thanks to Jason Gomez). … Terry Mark reports that Indiana will wear throwbacks this Saturday to mark the 40th anniversary of the 1967 team, which played in the ’68 Rose Bowl. … Unique find by Joe Hilseberg, who discovered a photo of an old Jim Turner Broncos jersey with the first initial added onto the existing nameplate. “Never seen anything like that before,” says Joe, who’s seen many a nameplate in his day. … I’m told that that the Kings’ patch in this photo is a tribute to SoCal firefighters, although I haven’t been able to find a closer view of the design. Anyone..? … Mark Mihalik notes that LaDainian Tomlinson’s cleats had powder blue trim on Sunday, to match the Chargers’ alternate jerseys. … Over on the Chris Creamer board, someone came up with an old photo of Marcus Allen playing in a Pro Bowl with a black facemask on his Raiders helmet

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#1 by John on 11.13.07 9:11 am |

Helmet decals are a lot easier to get torn up than people think

#2 by Robert on 11.13.07 9:13 am |

Note to self: Wear no colors aside from gray and white on trips to Central and South America. And certain urban areas in the U.S.

#3 by Chad E. on 11.13.07 9:19 am |

This is what the Indiana throwbacks will look like.

http://img.inkfrog.c...

#4 by John Zajac on 11.13.07 9:26 am |

Is it just me, or does this jersey look like the new MLB cool base BP jerseys, but with a full button down front? Why can’t we have that here? If we have to go with the pit stain look, can’t we at least have them look like actual jerseys and not something 5 year olds wear in Tee Ball leagues with the 2 button pullover?

#5 by Marc M. on 11.13.07 9:28 am |

In August I went to a friend’s wedding in Nicaragua and was bumping around in my Phillies (2007 Eastern Division Champs) cap. I got a lot of waves and nods of approval, and I thought it was because Nicaragua native Vicente Padilla had played for the Phils. My friend explained a red cap signifies my solidarity with the Sandanistas, still a major issue in that polarized country.
Phillies 2007 Eastern Division Champs cap in August? Kind of presumptuous, wouldn’t you say?

#6 by Dwight on 11.13.07 9:28 am |

This is what the Indiana throwbacks will look like.

http://img.inkfrog.c...

How is that significant - isn’t that what they wear now?

#7 by Gary on 11.13.07 9:30 am |

The patch that the Kings are wearing is the same as the helmet sticker that SD State wore.

#8 by The Ol Goaler on 11.13.07 9:35 am |

In August I went to a friend’s wedding in Nicaragua and was bumping around in my Phillies (2007 Eastern Division Champs) cap. I got a lot of waves and nods of approval, and I thought it was because Nicaragua native Vicente Padilla had played for the Phils. My friend explained a red cap signifies my solidarity with the Sandanistas, still a major issue in that polarized country.
Phillies 2007 Eastern Division Champs cap in August? Kind of presumptuous, wouldn’t you say?

Not really… the St. Louis Cardinals jacket I’ve worn for years “magically” became a World Champion Cardinals jacket after October 2006! (Now it’s “just” a Cardinals’ jacket again; and since it features both red and blue, I can continue to confuse even those in South and Central America about my politics!) (evil grin!)

#9 by Rick on 11.13.07 9:36 am |

In August I went to a friend’s wedding in Nicaragua and was bumping around in my Phillies (2007 Eastern Division Champs) cap. I got a lot of waves and nods of approval, and I thought it was because Nicaragua native Vicente Padilla had played for the Phils. My friend explained a red cap signifies my solidarity with the Sandanistas, still a major issue in that polarized country.
Phillies 2007 Eastern Division Champs cap in August? Kind of presumptuous, wouldn’t you say?

I think he meant that it was a Phillies cap, and that they were the 2007 Eastern Division Champs this past year. Not that the hat said “2007 Eastern Divison Champs”.

#10 by Rick on 11.13.07 9:36 am |

I too liked the Chargers powder blue jerseys. But, these new ones are not powder blue. They are darker. Here’s a picture from 1960 . And here’s now.

#11 by Jon on 11.13.07 9:37 am |

Did Marcus Allen have a logo drawn on the tape of his cleats.

#12 by Rick on 11.13.07 9:39 am |

I too liked the Chargers powder blue jerseys. But, these new ones are not powder blue. They are darker. Here’s a picture from 1960 . And here’s now.

I’ll try again.

1960

#13 by Pat on 11.13.07 9:43 am |

This was posted yesterday but I wanted to express my desire to see this happen.

Since the 2009 NBA All-Star game will be played in Phoenix and they will be using a modified version of this logo, I am hoping and praying that they come back and use a modified version of these uniforms.

#14 by Nick Maibroda on 11.13.07 9:44 am |

If you look at the logo on the thumb of Jagr’s glove it seems to be that of D-R Sports, a Quebec area sports equipment company. As far as I am aware, DR doesn’t have a deal with Reebok and judging by the faded logo there may have been an attempt to cover it up with some red marker. It seems to be similar to the situation of Helton Mizuno-izing his Nike shoes.
Another thing about Jagr is that he doesn’t lace up the first set of eyelets close to the toes on his skates. You can kind of see it in the previous photo. I have tried this technique and continue to use it today. It save a great deal of wear on the laces.

#15 by jesse on 11.13.07 9:50 am |

This is what the Indiana throwbacks will look like.

http://img.inkfrog.c...

How is that significant - isn’t that what they wear now?

Off the top of my head the helmets are different, they have the interlocking IU rather than just an I, and they wear red pants rather than white.

#16 by Talon Lardner on 11.13.07 9:52 am |

I too liked the Chargers powder blue jerseys. But, these new ones are not powder blue. They are darker. Here’s a picture from 1960 . And here’s now.

I’ll try again.

1960

Hmm…. they look about the same to me, considering that the 1960 picture looks a touch washed out. Doing a quick google search on “Collegiate blue” showed me colors that were both lighter and darker than the current powder blue uniforms.

#17 by TommyB on 11.13.07 9:57 am |

Pretty sure that Mike Nolan was wearing last year’s Telex/Motorola headset last night instead of the current model. Anyone have a screenshot? If I had to guess a reason, I’d say the 12th man. A friend who works for Telex tells me that this years’ headsets are acoustically horrible, but that Motorola sees them primarily as advertising rather than a functional product. Maybe he pulled out last year’s set so he could hear better?

#18 by Paul Lukas on 11.13.07 9:58 am |

A friend who works for Telex tells me that this years’ headsets are acoustically horrible, but that Motorola sees them primarily as advertising rather than a functional product.

What a surprise.

#19 by Rick on 11.13.07 10:00 am |

I too liked the Chargers powder blue jerseys. But, these new ones are not powder blue. They are darker. Here’s a picture from 1960 . And here’s now.

I’ll try again.

1960

Hmm…. they look about the same to me, considering that the 1960 picture looks a touch washed out. Doing a quick google search on “Collegiate blue” showed me colors that were both lighter and darker than the current powder blue uniforms.

Is it possible that the new jersey is just shinier and that’s what makes it look darker?

#20 by My name is not Earl on 11.13.07 10:04 am |

If I’m not mistaken, the Hoosiers did wear the white pants at least once at home this year. And don’t the jerseys have “Indiana” or “Hoosiers” on them? Or, maybe I’m getting them confused with Oklahoma

#21 by BJ Lanier on 11.13.07 10:05 am |

Here are IU’s 2007 unis for reference (Click on Photo Galleries)

LINKAGE

#22 by Boston Nick on 11.13.07 10:05 am |

If you look at the logo on the thumb of Jagr’s glove it seems to be that of D-R Sports, a Quebec area sports equipment company. As far as I am aware, DR doesn’t have a deal with Reebok and judging by the faded logo there may have been an attempt to cover it up with some red marker. It seems to be similar to the situation of Helton Mizuno-izing his Nike shoes.
Another thing about Jagr is that he doesn’t lace up the first set of eyelets close to the toes on his skates. You can kind of see it in the previous photo. I have tried this technique and continue to use it today. It save a great deal of wear on the laces.

The funny thing with Jagr is that as recently as last year, he was using a pair of really tore up old Koho gloves that had the Reebok logo placed on it. Of course, that wouldn’t matter as much, since Koho is owned by RBK now.

Joe Thornton has also done this a bunch in the past, wearing Easton gloves with CCM (for whom he’s one of the main endorsers) logos.

#23 by Rich on 11.13.07 10:05 am |

I’m not surprised about Venezuela, I know people here in the DC area who actually refuse to wear the Nationals script “W” cap, because of a certain politician currently in office…!

#24 by Kevin on 11.13.07 10:05 am |

Could the logo on the Kings’ jersey simply be the California State Firefighters’ Association’s logo? As seen in the upper left corner on their site here: http://www.csfa.net/

#25 by GC on 11.13.07 10:06 am |

Heh…one of my fake sports teams is named the “Red Menace”.

http://www.fof-ihof....

(No, not communist…just had a 3yo with red hair when I named them! Someone else suggested I go that route with the theme.)

#26 by Wade Harder on 11.13.07 10:08 am |

This is what the Indiana throwbacks will look like.

http://img.inkfrog.c...

How is that significant - isn’t that what they wear now?

Off the top of my head the helmets are different, they have the interlocking IU rather than just an I, and they wear red pants rather than white.

The current helmets are also stripeless.

#27 by u2horn on 11.13.07 10:09 am |

I too liked the Chargers powder blue jerseys. But, these new ones are not powder blue. They are darker. Here’s a picture from 1960 . And here’s now.

http://www.chargers....

Looks LIGHTER than the 1960, the same as the 68-73

Not sure why they would leave out 1974-1978 on their timeline though.

#28 by Mike Engle on 11.13.07 10:13 am |

A friend who works for Telex tells me that this years’ headsets are acoustically horrible, but that Motorola sees them primarily as advertising rather than a functional product.

What a surprise.

More surprise: I recall somebody mentioning on this blog that Motorola attaches a much-larger-than-necessary microphone to the headsets so that the word MOTOROLA can be displayed four times (not just two) and in a larger font.

#29 by Marty Met on 11.13.07 10:16 am |

In August I went to a friend’s wedding in Nicaragua and was bumping around in my Phillies (2007 Eastern Division Champs) cap. I got a lot of waves and nods of approval, and I thought it was because Nicaragua native Vicente Padilla had played for the Phils. My friend explained a red cap signifies my solidarity with the Sandanistas, still a major issue in that polarized country.
Phillies 2007 Eastern Division Champs cap in August? Kind of presumptuous, wouldn’t you say?

“bumping”?

#30 by Rick on 11.13.07 10:18 am |

I too liked the Chargers powder blue jerseys. But, these new ones are not powder blue. They are darker. Here’s a picture from 1960 . And here’s now.

http://www.chargers....

Looks LIGHTER than the 1960, the same as the 68-73

Not sure why they would leave out 1974-1978 on their timeline though.

I took a virtual swatch from the 1960 jersey and a virtual swatch from the “09-21-03″ jersey and the 1960 swatch is a bit darker. BUT … that’s not the real jersey. And, maybe the 1960 version in my example is lighter because of camera technology, lighting, age of photo, etc. I’d still like the current ones to be a shade lighter. :)

#31 by Joey Guns on 11.13.07 10:27 am |

Cricket is testing out pink balls…..

http://news.bbc.co.u...

#32 by ToasterPoodle on 11.13.07 10:29 am |

I too liked the Chargers powder blue jerseys. But, these new ones are not powder blue. They are darker. Here’s a picture from 1960 . And here’s now.

http://www.chargers....

Looks LIGHTER than the 1960, the same as the 68-73

Not sure why they would leave out 1974-1978 on their timeline though.

After looking at that history, it sure seems like the Chargers have jerked around with their color blue quite a bit. None of the powder blues seem quite the same. It makes me feel better about the current variation.

#33 by Perry on 11.13.07 10:33 am |

Catching up on last night’s comments…

More from the Topps front… the Kaz Matsui card is a disgrace — he’s clearly at Shea Stadium in a home Rockies jersey.

Not only that, they didn’t bother to give him the right uni number. He wore 16 with the Rockies last year and 7 this year, but the photo has him with either 2 or 20-something, probably his Mets number, whatever it was.

#34 by Shane on 11.13.07 10:40 am |

Pretty sure that Mike Nolan was wearing last year’s Telex/Motorola headset last night instead of the current model. Anyone have a screenshot? If I had to guess a reason, I’d say the 12th man. A friend who works for Telex tells me that this years’ headsets are acoustically horrible, but that Motorola sees them primarily as advertising rather than a functional product. Maybe he pulled out last year’s set so he could hear better?

Maybe Giuliani got the contract for them?

Sad to see Mike didn’t pull out the suit for last night. I wish he’d tell the NFL to go shove it and wear it all the time now.

#35 by FEZ WHATLEY on 11.13.07 10:40 am |

The funny thing with Jagr is that as recently as last year, he was using a pair of really tore up old Koho gloves that had the Reebok logo placed on it. Of course, that wouldn’t matter as much, since Koho is owned by RBK now.

Jagr has used DR gloves before with the Caps and the Rangers.

#36 by Hank on 11.13.07 10:42 am |

I too liked the Chargers powder blue jerseys. But, these new ones are not powder blue. They are darker. Here’s a picture from 1960 . And here’s now.

I’ll try again.

1960

Hmm…. they look about the same to me, considering that the 1960 picture looks a touch washed out. Doing a quick google search on “Collegiate blue” showed me colors that were both lighter and darker than the current powder blue uniforms.

Is it possible that the new jersey is just shinier and that’s what makes it look darker?

The newer materials may have something to do with it. When the Eagles wore their ‘33 throwbacks in Yellow and Blue, the shiney material made it hard to see the blue numbers on the yellow background. Natural materials that are dyed will look different from the newer hi-tech fabrics, and, some colors may be harder to reproduce accurately.

#37 by ScottyJ in WV on 11.13.07 10:43 am |

Note to self: Wear no colors aside from gray and white on trips to Central and South America. And certain urban areas in the U.S.

Note to self: Don’t take trips to Central and South America….and certain urban areas in the U.S. where a team’s cap color means something other than the team’s color.

#38 by Casey (Davis, CA) on 11.13.07 10:45 am |

Toronto Maple Leafs will be wearing wearing white at home tonight, instead of blue. Apparently, this may be due to superstitions…

http://www.torontosu...

#39 by Shane on 11.13.07 10:46 am |

Cool sport story of the day. Not uni-related, but I think every fans dream.

#40 by Kevin on 11.13.07 10:49 am |

I thought Nolan could only wear the suit for home games?

#41 by John T on 11.13.07 10:53 am |

Catching up on last night’s comments…

More from the Topps front… the Kaz Matsui card is a disgrace — he’s clearly at Shea Stadium in a home Rockies jersey.

Not only that, they didn’t bother to give him the right uni number. He wore 16 with the Rockies last year and 7 this year, but the photo has him with either 2 or 20-something, probably his Mets number, whatever it was.

It was 25 as seen in Pic, you think if they could wipe out the Mets uni, they could at least try with the number!!

#42 by Shane on 11.13.07 10:53 am |

I thought Nolan could only wear the suit for home games?

Yes, just wishful thinking. If ever there was a time to tell the NFL uni-police to go *uh-uh* themselves last night was it.

#43 by Steve on 11.13.07 10:55 am |

In regards to Marcus Allen’s facemask — it was not black. The color of the facemask was more of a charcoal gray so it contrasted with the silver of the Raiders’ helmet. The black and white photo doesn’t show this - it looks black.

#44 by Steve on 11.13.07 10:57 am |

Marcus Allen

#45 by Steve on 11.13.07 10:59 am |

Marcus Allen

Let’s try that again

#46 by John M on 11.13.07 10:59 am |

How is that significant - isn’t that what they wear now?

Indiana has alternated between white and crimson pants at home. They wore white pants against Penn State and I believe against Ball State.

As noted above, the main differences between the 1967 uniforms and today’s are the helmet logo (interlock IU today, block I then), the helmet stripe (two white stripes then, none today) and the facemasks (gray then, crimson today). IU’s current jerseys are fairly conservative (no outrageous fonts), but the 1967 jersey didn’t have “HOOSIERS” across the chest. Also, the shade of crimson worn in 1967 was somewhat lighter than the shade that IU wears now. Based on a helmet logo appearing on the IU website, I’m guessing that IU will be wearing roughly authentic jerseys (with the Adidas logo added, of course), but that the helmet will be the same one that IU wore in the 2005 Bucket game as a memorial to 1967 team member Terry Cole, who died in 2005 (accurate in all respects but the color and the facemask).

2005 throwback helmet

My guess is that they will be wearing the current shade of crimson rather than the lighter shade. But, we will find out this afternoon, apparently.

#47 by Steve on 11.13.07 11:00 am |

http://www.celebrity...

#48 by johnt on 11.13.07 11:01 am |

Cricket is testing out pink balls…..

http://news.bbc.co.u...

Hope that they are not used with this team

http://newsimg.bbc.c...

#49 by Tim on 11.13.07 11:06 am |

Thanks Jason Gomez for getting my Greg Wesley photos to UniWatch. I took those on Sunday and tried posting them in the comments section about 5 times (3 different computers, 2 different IPs) until I finally just had to give up. I tagged them with “UniWatch” on Flickr in the hopes that someone would find them and get them in Paul’s hands. Thanks Jason! Appreciate it!

#50 by Tim on 11.13.07 11:08 am |

Hey I can finally post again! Christmas comes early!

#51 by Greg V. on 11.13.07 11:08 am |

The Chargers unis in the picture from monday night are also wet. The rain made them look a little darker than they really are.

#52 by J.C. on 11.13.07 11:09 am |

Kings’ CSFA patch and auction info

#53 by ThresherK on 11.13.07 11:11 am |

that means in some anti-Chávez areas, Santa was dressed in blue

I remember seeing a blue-clad Santa in footage from (Francophone) Quebec, maybe ~20 years ago. And it didn’t have to do with the Nordiques.

#54 by Rick on 11.13.07 11:13 am |

The Chargers unis in the picture from monday night are also wet. The rain made them look a little darker than they really are.

I completely forgot about the rain.

#55 by john on 11.13.07 11:15 am |

If you look at the logo on the thumb of Jagr’s glove it seems to be that of D-R Sports, a Quebec area sports equipment company. As far as I am aware, DR doesn’t have a deal with Reebok and judging by the faded logo there may have been an attempt to cover it up with some red marker. It seems to be similar to the situation of Helton Mizuno-izing his Nike shoes.
Another thing about Jagr is that he doesn’t lace up the first set of eyelets close to the toes on his skates. You can kind of see it in the previous photo. I have tried this technique and continue to use it today. It save a great deal of wear on the laces.

The funny thing with Jagr is that as recently as last year, he was using a pair of really tore up old Koho gloves that had the Reebok logo placed on it. Of course, that wouldn’t matter as much, since Koho is owned by RBK now.

Joe Thornton has also done this a bunch in the past, wearing Easton gloves with CCM (for whom he’s one of the main endorsers) logos.

It’s all about the comfort and feel (physically and psychologically). It’s the same with Arturs Irbe, the poster-boy for “my gear is properly broken-in, why change?”

#56 by Stuby on 11.13.07 11:19 am |

I’m not surprised about Venezuela, I know people here in the DC area who actually refuse to wear the Nationals script “W” cap, because of a certain politician currently in office…!

That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard.

#57 by Beefalo on 11.13.07 11:20 am |

Apropos of nothing, I was on YouTube this morning and found an amazing (or at least amazing to me) clip.

Around ten years ago, someone put a mic on former Oilers/Rangers (and other teams) super-agitator Esa Tikkanen and followed him in a game. Unless you speak Finnish, you probably won’t understand much (although there is one English curse word in there) but the uniforms in the clip boggle the mind.

#58 by Matt from L.A. on 11.13.07 11:43 am |

That is the CSFA logo. You see it around town on cars quite often. (in Los Angeles that is)

#59 by USMC Ken on 11.13.07 11:55 am |

The ad came in my email today and I thought of you. Major League emblems rendered in Hebrew. Enjoy

#60 by Matty L on 11.13.07 11:56 am |

Geezers and the sparklers on the skates are pretty standard for old timers games. Last year I think it was Dave Ellet who did a bit where he got a penalty shot, the lights in the arena got dimmed, a spotlight got shone, he skated up the ice in slow motion, and had sparklers on his stick go off when he took a slapshot.

Geezer games suck.

#61 by Ryan on 11.13.07 11:56 am |

Not uni-related, but does anyone else think new hockey Hall of Fame inductee Ron Francis (on the far left) looks like B movie superstar and Old Spice spokesperson Bruce Campbell?

#62 by Marty Met on 11.13.07 11:58 am |

The Chargers unis in the picture from monday night are also wet. The rain made them look a little darker than they really are.

Either way the Chargers vs. Colts is Ugly Uniforms vs. EVEN Uglier Uniforms.

#63 by Dan King on 11.13.07 11:59 am |

Quick note about the Santa thing: He doesn’t wear red everywhere in the world. The only reason he does here is because Coke commissioned an artist to do an advertisement with Santa in it, so he made him with a red suit.

#64 by USMC Ken on 11.13.07 11:59 am |

Second try on the link: http://www.judaicawe...

#65 by Jason Axel on 11.13.07 11:59 am |

The Grand Rapids Griffins are holding their annual matinee game and there are about 6,500 students, elementary to high school running around Van Andel Arena here in GR and I must say, considering I am not apart of the Griffins, just the arena, it is really hard to try and do work today in our office that is located right underneath the stands when my desk and monitor are shaking and vibrating from the crowd…

#66 by Michael Doucette on 11.13.07 12:10 pm |

Did Marcus Allen have a logo drawn on the tape of his cleats.

I saw that too!! Looks like the Puma logo!! Drawn on his spats?? I don’t get it… it confuses.

#67 by +JohnnyBoy- on 11.13.07 12:12 pm |

I wonder if Carlos Zambrano’s penchant for the Cubs now retired blue “softball” alts was politically driven.

#68 by Dave on 11.13.07 12:19 pm |

Paul,

About a month ago, you mentioned that the NY Giants equipment manager had a revolutionary idea that would make the red jersey look better. But since he needed league approval, you weren’t able to say what it was. Are you able to share that info now? Was it the red NY on the nose bumper?

#69 by Moose on 11.13.07 12:23 pm |

Second try on the link: http://www.judaicawe...

Especially great is the White Sox and Dodgers. They are indiscernible!

#70 by Paul Lukas on 11.13.07 12:30 pm |

Paul,

About a month ago, you mentioned that the NY Giants equipment manager had a revolutionary idea that would make the red jersey look better. But since he needed league approval, you weren’t able to say what it was. Are you able to share that info now? Was it the red NY on the nose bumper?

It was NOT the red nose bumper. I’m not at liberty to say what it was, but I can safely say you won’t be seeing it this season.

#71 by Dave A on 11.13.07 12:33 pm |

I’m not surprised about Venezuela, I know people here in the DC area who actually refuse to wear the Nationals script “W” cap, because of a certain politician currently in office…!

That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard.

The politician? Yes, he certainly is.

#72 by Seth H on 11.13.07 12:39 pm |

Unless you speak Finnish, you probably won’t understand much

It does not matter where he was playing. Tik was known for being indecipherable in English.

#73 by ScottyJ in WV on 11.13.07 12:40 pm |

I’m not surprised about Venezuela, I know people here in the DC area who actually refuse to wear the Nationals script “W” cap, because of a certain politician currently in office…!

That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard.

The politician? Yes, he certainly is.

No, not wearing the cap of a team because it just happens to be the middle initial of the President, whose politics you don’t agree with, that’s ridiculous.

One of my favorite quotes when it comes to politicians, from Bobcat Goldthwait,

“Blaming the President for the state of the country is like blaming Ronald McDonald when you get a bad cheeseburger….neither guy runs the company.”

#74 by My name is not Earl on 11.13.07 12:44 pm |

If the Giants really want to go and jazz up their red jerseys, they should with the Alabama/Arkansas/Oklahoma look . . . red helmets, red jerseys, white pants. Though as the Seahawks’ getting their proposal to wear two sets of helmets shot down tells us, it’s unlikely that the league will approve an alternate set of headgear

#75 by bouj on 11.13.07 12:59 pm |

I’m not surprised about Venezuela, I know people here in the DC area who actually refuse to wear the Nationals script “W” cap, because of a certain politician currently in office…!

That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard.

Well, it’s the reason I will only wear the alt “DC” logo cap (that, and it makes more sense stylistically).

#76 by Cosmo on 11.13.07 1:07 pm |

Didn’t the Redskins have a “home helmet” and an “away helmet” a couple of years ago? If I remember correctly they wore a Florida State-esque helmet at home and their regular helmet on the road. Why won’t the league allow multiple helmets?

#77 by Cosmo on 11.13.07 1:10 pm |

Here’s ESPN’s rundown of the Redskins alts:

http://espn.go.com/p...

I really liked the dual helmet look.

#78 by Nate in the PDX on 11.13.07 1:15 pm |

Yep, I concur that it’s tough reconciling the desire to wear Nats gear with the fear, however unlikely, of being perceived as a fan of that other “W.” The fact that the team’s primary color is red — the color lately associated with Republican leanings — only makes that harder.

So far I’ve purchased and proudly worn a blue “curly W” cap and a red “DC” cap. No red “W” cap until spring ‘09 for me.

#79 by Nate in the PDX on 11.13.07 1:25 pm |

Those arrow helmets were part of the 70th anniversary season. The Skins have new throwbacks (oxymoron?) this year, for their 75th anniversary, as previously covered here.

Perhaps this has also been previously noted, but I find it funny that the Eagle and Steeler franchises (1933) are actually one year younger than the Redskins (1932), but all three are celebrating their 75th anniversaries this season!

#80 by Broker75 on 11.13.07 1:32 pm |

Here’s ESPN’s rundown of the Redskins alts:

http://espn.go.com/p...

I really liked the dual helmet look.

The Florida State Seminole helmet never did anything for me. Their (Redskins) current is perfect.

#81 by Swens on 11.13.07 1:41 pm |

I’m not surprised about Venezuela, I know people here in the DC area who actually refuse to wear the Nationals script “W” cap, because of a certain politician currently in office…!

That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard.

The politician? Yes, he certainly is.

hey, keep the politics out of here!! the original comment about people not wearing the hat was very uni-related but the two follow-up remarks should not have been posted.

#82 by u2horn on 11.13.07 1:49 pm |

that means in some anti-Chávez areas, Santa was dressed in blue

I remember seeing a blue-clad Santa in footage from (Francophone) Quebec, maybe ~20 years ago. And it didn’t have to do with the Nordiques.

Are you sure it wasn’t Hanukkah Harry?

#83 by Boston Nick on 11.13.07 2:00 pm |

The funny thing with Jagr is that as recently as last year, he was using a pair of really tore up old Koho gloves that had the Reebok logo placed on it. Of course, that wouldn’t matter as much, since Koho is owned by RBK now.

Jagr has used DR gloves before with the Caps and the Rangers.

Here’s a picture from the time when his gloves had the Reebok logo.

And here’s one from when they were Kohos.

And if these link right, I’ll be so damn happy.

#84 by Boston Nick on 11.13.07 2:01 pm |

goddamnit…there are pics on google images (Jaromir Jagr rangers, first and third pages of results) if you care as much as I do.

#85 by Dwight on 11.13.07 2:31 pm |

How is that significant - isn’t that what they wear now?

Indiana has alternated between white and crimson pants at home. They wore white pants against Penn State and I believe against Ball State.

As noted above, the main differences between the 1967 uniforms and today’s are the helmet logo (interlock IU today, block I then), the helmet stripe (two white stripes then, none today) and the facemasks (gray then, crimson today). IU’s current jerseys are fairly conservative (no outrageous fonts), but the 1967 jersey didn’t have “HOOSIERS” across the chest. Also, the shade of crimson worn in 1967 was somewhat lighter than the shade that IU wears now. Based on a helmet logo appearing on the IU website, I’m guessing that IU will be wearing roughly authentic jerseys (with the Adidas logo added, of course), but that the helmet will be the same one that IU wore in the 2005 Bucket game as a memorial to 1967 team member Terry Cole, who died in 2005 (accurate in all respects but the color and the facemask).

2005 throwback helmet

My guess is that they will be wearing the current shade of crimson rather than the lighter shade. But, we will find out this afternoon, apparently.

Gotcha - thanks to all for elaborating today.

#86 by mike on 11.13.07 2:33 pm |

I’m not surprised about Venezuela, I know people here in the DC area who actually refuse to wear the Nationals script “W” cap, because of a certain politician currently in office…!

That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard.

But most definately true….what made it worse is when the whole “red state” “blue state” election happened people would only buy a Nats hat in the color of their chosen affiliation, I shit you not.

#87 by Chance on 11.13.07 2:38 pm |

that means in some anti-Chávez areas, Santa was dressed in blue

I remember seeing a blue-clad Santa in footage from (Francophone) Quebec, maybe ~20 years ago. And it didn’t have to do with the Nordiques.

Are you sure it wasn’t Hanukkah Harry?

“On Moische, on Herschel, on Schlomo….”

#88 by Anthony Verna on 11.13.07 2:39 pm |

that means in some anti-Chávez areas, Santa was dressed in blue

I remember seeing a blue-clad Santa in footage from (Francophone) Quebec, maybe ~20 years ago. And it didn’t have to do with the Nordiques.

Are you sure it wasn’t Hanukkah Harry?

Santa doesn’t get sick every year, you know!

#89 by Kyle at IU on 11.13.07 2:40 pm |

How is that significant - isn’t that what they wear now?

Indiana has alternated between white and crimson pants at home. They wore white pants against Penn State and I believe against Ball State.

As noted above, the main differences between the 1967 uniforms and today’s are the helmet logo (interlock IU today, block I then), the helmet stripe (two white stripes then, none today) and the facemasks (gray then, crimson today). IU’s current jerseys are fairly conservative (no outrageous fonts), but the 1967 jersey didn’t have “HOOSIERS” across the chest. Also, the shade of crimson worn in 1967 was somewhat lighter than the shade that IU wears now. Based on a helmet logo appearing on the IU website, I’m guessing that IU will be wearing roughly authentic jerseys (with the Adidas logo added, of course), but that the helmet will be the same one that IU wore in the 2005 Bucket game as a memorial to 1967 team member Terry Cole, who died in 2005 (accurate in all respects but the color and the facemask).

2005 throwback helmet

My guess is that they will be wearing the current shade of crimson rather than the lighter shade. But, we will find out this afternoon, apparently.

Gotcha - thanks to all for elaborating today.

Indiana had white pants on for matchups with Minnesota and Penn State at home this season. They wore the red for the Ball State game (according to the picture of Ray Fisher’s 60-yard TD on my desktop).

When they wore the throwback helmets with the current uniforms in ‘05, I believe they went with the red pants. Hopefully they’ll make the throwbacks happen for real this time and live up to the memory of that ‘67 bucket game.

#90 by dm00n on 11.13.07 2:46 pm |

I’m not surprised about Venezuela, I know people here in the DC area who actually refuse to wear the Nationals script “W” cap, because of a certain politician currently in office…!

That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard.

Well, it’s the reason I will only wear the alt “DC” logo cap (that, and it makes more sense stylistically).

Ah, so you’re more of a Dick Cheney fan.

(Heh, had to ruin that cap too!)

#91 by al on 11.13.07 2:48 pm |

Catching up on last night’s comments…

More from the Topps front… the Kaz Matsui card is a disgrace — he’s clearly at Shea Stadium in a home Rockies jersey.

Not only that, they didn’t bother to give him the right uni number. He wore 16 with the Rockies last year and 7 this year, but the photo has him with either 2 or 20-something, probably his Mets number, whatever it was.

Nice catch ! Also take a look at the NY logo (on the hat) in Orange/blue they did such a lousy job of masking!

#92 by Art on 11.13.07 2:50 pm |

After going to UCLA’s home games this season and seeing the yellow ‘C’ jersey, I have been wondering what UCLA basketball’s away jersey are going to look like. I found this browsing the UCLA online store today.

#93 by Marty Met on 11.13.07 3:16 pm |

Catching up on last night’s comments…

More from the Topps front… the Kaz Matsui card is a disgrace — he’s clearly at Shea Stadium in a home Rockies jersey.

Not only that, they didn’t bother to give him the right uni number. He wore 16 with the Rockies last year and 7 this year, but the photo has him with either 2 or 20-something, probably his Mets number, whatever it was.

Nice catch ! Also take a look at the NY logo (on the hat) in Orange/blue they did such a lousy job of masking!

as long as he’s not wearing a Mets uniform I don’t care how bad the retouching is.

#94 by Bill on 11.13.07 3:29 pm |

What is wrong with this picture?
http://www.orbitcast... .
That jersey looks like it is 3 sizes too big for him.

Eric Byrnes to host show on XM radio

#95 by joe spizz on 11.13.07 3:32 pm |

can any1 clear up what turn ahead the clock unis were i have some attached photoes but i dont no y people were thenm

#96 by joe spizz on 11.13.07 3:33 pm |

can any1 clear up what turn ahead the clock unis were i have some attached photoes but i dont no y people were thenm

http://www.angelfire...

#97 by LI Phil on 11.13.07 3:34 pm |

What is wrong with this picture?That jersey looks like it is 3 sizes too big for him.

perhaps TOPPS photoshopped it for him

#98 by John M on 11.13.07 3:36 pm |

Kyle, thanks for the correction. I knew that they wore the white pants at home (for the first time in a couple of years) because of an unseasonably hot day, but I was confusing the PSU and Minny games.

You are correct about the 2005 Bucket game. The Mallory uniforms and the block I helmet were retired a year after I graduated, so it was really eerie to see the all-crimson look (Mal’s preferred big game attire) and the helmets on that day.

#99 by Ian K on 11.13.07 3:56 pm |

What is wrong with this picture?
http://www.orbitcast... .
That jersey looks like it is 3 sizes too big for him.

Eric Byrnes to host show on XM radio

Why is Eric Byrnes the go-to guy for anything MLB related in the media? I see him everywhere now, especially for not being much of a superstar. According to b-r, similar batters include Todd Hollandsworth, Jeffrey Hammonds, and Gary Ward. None of them have radio shows.

#100 by Chad E. on 11.13.07 3:56 pm |

IU jersey patch photos and jersey photos.

http://vmedia.rivals...

#101 by ScottyJ in WV on 11.13.07 4:22 pm |

What is wrong with this picture?
http://www.orbitcast... .
That jersey looks like it is 3 sizes too big for him.

Eric Byrnes to host show on XM radio

I think you answered your own question……the damn thing’s 3 sizes too big!

Lordy, when will ball players start to wear uniforms that fit them again??!!? I’m real tired of seeing basketball teams wearing culottes!!!!!!!!

#102 by NateL on 11.13.07 4:31 pm |

How about this photo?

Robert Gallery

What’s the deal with the eyelets in the crotch region? I haven’t seen anyone where those in a long time, if ever.

#103 by Pat on 11.13.07 4:52 pm |

How about this photo?

Robert Gallery

What’s the deal with the eyelets in the crotch region? I haven’t seen anyone where those in a long time, if ever.

I don’t know. I’m assuming it’s for a lace up fly. I think they are pretty common. It seems to be recurring on Gallery (look closely) though.

Other Raiders players have them as well.

#104 by Mike on 11.13.07 4:56 pm |

Those arrow helmets were part of the 70th anniversary season. The Skins have new throwbacks (oxymoron?) this year, for their 75th anniversary, as previously covered here.

Perhaps this has also been previously noted, but I find it funny that the Eagle and Steeler franchises (1933) are actually one year younger than the Redskins (1932), but all three are celebrating their 75th anniversaries this season!

It’s probably because of that season where the Eagles and the Steelers combined to become the Steeler-Eagles (Eagle-Steelers? Steagles?) because of the war.

#105 by clint kalinec on 11.13.07 5:05 pm |

has anyone noticed the spats that Marcus Allen has over his cleats in the pick above. they seem to have the puma logo colored over them. correct me if im wrong

#106 by Chance on 11.13.07 5:23 pm |

Those arrow helmets were part of the 70th anniversary season. The Skins have new throwbacks (oxymoron?) this year, for their 75th anniversary, as previously covered here.

Perhaps this has also been previously noted, but I find it funny that the Eagle and Steeler franchises (1933) are actually one year younger than the Redskins (1932), but all three are celebrating their 75th anniversaries this season!

It’s probably because of that season where the Eagles and the Steelers combined to become the Steeler-Eagles (Eagle-Steelers? Steagles?) because of the war.

They are commonly referred to as the Steagles, and I’m pretty sure that both the teams count the records from that year (the Steelers did it the following year with Chicago, resulting in a team known as “Card-Pitt” with a silent “d”).

Is this a “75 seasons” vs. “75th Anniversary” distinction?

#107 by dgraham on 11.13.07 5:38 pm |

hey, keep the politics out of here!! the original comment about people not wearing the hat was very uni-related but the two follow-up remarks should not have been posted.

Take it to the top then, and the notes about which players don’t have “american” flag decals — that’s just as political, and if there are athletes who are making a statement that they don’t want to be advertising for that cause, then I say good for them … though I doubt that’s really what’s going on.

#108 by John in Athens on 11.13.07 5:59 pm |

I’m not surprised about Venezuela, I know people here in the DC area who actually refuse to wear the Nationals script “W” cap, because of a certain politician currently in office…!

That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard.

Well, it’s the reason I will only wear the alt “DC” logo cap (that, and it makes more sense stylistically).

Ah, so you’re more of a Dick Cheney fan.

Isn’t that like saying, “you’re more of an Easter Bunny?&#