Nike Finalizes Deal To Become MLB Uniform Sponsor

With Under Armour backing out, Nike poised to step in as the official MLB outfitter in 2020.

Nike Baseball Cleats
USA Today Sports

Image via Aaron Doster for USA Today Sports

Nike Baseball Cleats

Already the official outfitter of the NBA and NFL, Nike is close to adding another major sports league to its profile.

According to Sports Business Daily, Nike has stepped in to take over uniform rights for Major League Baseball beginning in 2020. While the deal isn't completed, SBD's Terry Lefton says they're about 80 percent of the way through and an official announcement could take place during the All-Star Game in July.

Uniform rights had previously been awarded to Under Armour in 2016, but recent financial issues reportedly made it an unaffordable venture. SBD reports that Under Armour will save about $50 million by not taking the deal.

Nike won't be able to complete the uniform monopoly anytime soon. Adidas signed on to make the NHL's apparel for 7 years in 2015.

UPDATE (01/25): As expected, Nike has become the Official Uniform and Footwear Supplier of the MLB. Forbes confirms that a 10-year deal will begin in 2020 and will see the Swoosh provide on-field uniforms, base layer and training apparel, and outerwear to the league's 30 teams. Financial details were not disclosed.