MLB, MLBPA announce revised rules on player footwear

Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) today announced that they have reached agreement regarding certain amendments to the Basic Agreement's rules governing the appearance of footwear worn by Players on the field. These amendments will provide Players increased flexibility with respect to the colors and design of their on-field footwear, while coordinating with the Clubs' uniform color schemes.
Among other things, MLB and the MLBPA have agreed to eliminate the previous rule that the majority of a Player's on-field footwear must be in his Club's designated primary shoe color. Instead, Players may wear shoes displaying any of the following colors, in any proportion: (i) black, white, and gray; (ii) any colors displayed on the Player's uniform (and certain variations thereof); and (iii) any additional colors designated by the Player's Club.  
MLB and the MLBPA will promulgate new Footwear Supplier Regulations, which will set forth the terms and process by which shoe manufacturers may provide shoes to Players to be worn during Major League games, including a requirement that proposed shoe designs be submitted to the Player's Club for advance approval.   
Baseball Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr. said: "Major League Baseball and its Clubs recognize the desire of Players to have more flexibility in this area and are pleased to announce the loosening of regulations that will permit more personalized and stylized footwear. We believe that this agreement strikes the appropriate balance between the shared goal of permitting Players to express their individuality while maintaining reasonable restrictions on shoe colors and designs."
MLBPA Executive Director Tony Clark said: "Players welcome the expanded opportunity to express themselves and engage with fans through innovative design. We look forward to seeing their creativity and individuality on the field in 2019."