Major League Baseball players must be in uniform at all times when they are on the field — even if it’s hours before first pitch.
At least that’s the sentiment of Atlanta Braves broadcasters Joe Simpson and Chip Caray, who both criticized the Los Angeles Dodgers for the attire they wore during batting practice Saturday.
Simpson, who spent four seasons as a Dodger from 1975-78, called the Dodgers’ T-shirts and shorts look during batting practice “very unprofessional” and an “embarrassment” during a fifth-inning rant that also included video clips to reinforce their point to viewers.
"They looked very unprofessional," Simpson said. "If I were a Dodger fan, I'd be embarrassed, and I don't know how Major League Baseball allows such attire when the gates are open."
Dodgers second baseman Chase Utley, in particular, drew the ire of Simpson, who said he respected his career but that no socks and pants over his knees were an “embarrassment.” Utley was also wearing the Dodgers’ K Cancer T-shirt, which was created by former reliever Jason Motte’s foundation. A portion of the proceeds go to benefit cancer research and San Juan Children’s Hospital. Neither broadcaster mentioned that.
Caray supported Simpson’s comments about Utley and the Dodgers’ attire.
“You think of all the merchandise Major League Baseball does with their batting practice uniforms and the batting practice jerseys, I’m with you. It’s called a uniform for a reason,” Caray said on the broadcast.
It’s worth noting that batting practice takes place two or three hours before game time and has no direct bearing on the day’s result. The league doesn’t mandate that its players wear uniforms during it. The Dodgers often don’t wear their batting practice jerseys.
Even after the minute-and-a-half critique, Caray went on Twitter to continue.
“I’m not the guy taking BP in Capri-mimicking pants, no socks, and no ‘uniform,’” Caray said in response to a person who was unhappy with the segment.
“Why not wear MLB-issued BP jerseys with names on road so paying customers know who’s who? Lighten up.”
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was told of the comments post-game and did not like being called out.
"I take it personally when people question our professionalism," Roberts said. "I'll put the way we play the game and the way we prepare against anybody's. I've got to hear the audio, but that sets me off a little bit."
Los Angeles players took the comments in stride, suggesting some alternate clothing options for the future.
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