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Rays to go retro — before team existed

Tampa Bay Rays retro uniform

We’re hoping this won’t be a trend, but it’s still cool: Next Sunday the Tampa Bay Rays will don uniforms designed as if the team existed in 1979 — the ultimate “fauxback” look.

Joe Maddon in retro uniformIt’s a “Turn Back the Clock” promotion for the Rays on June 30, when the Detroit Tigers visit Tropicana Field. And while the Rays have had nine other similar promotions, this is the one that will surely make the biggest impact.

The Rays have designed a hypothetical uniform from 1979, keeping the team’s modern colors while incorporating a look that is consistent with design trends from the era. A patch on the left sleeve of the jersey features a City of St. Petersburg seal that was used in 1979.

It’s a look that’s been pegged by some devoted uniform watchers as “fauxback.” In this case, it’s a pretty cool look that resonates with fans, though we’d hate to see every MLB team go for the same thing in coming seasons. 

“We want to thank our great partners at Majestic Athletic and Major League Baseball for helping bring this unique concept to life,” said Rays Senior Vice President Mark Fernandez. “Everyone with the Rays is excited to make this an annual event, and something Rays fans will look forward to every year with great anticipation, starting with our Turn Back the Clock night on June 30.”

The Tigers will wear a uniform based on their actual 1979 road gray jersey.  Versions of the select jersey were worn by Detroit from 1972 until 1993. 

The Rays retro jerseys will be auctioned off on raysbaseball.com following the game with proceeds benefiting the Moffitt Cancer Center and the Rays Baseball Foundation.

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