1
Introduction
The purpose of this book, foreword, the scope of what is included inside, a summary of changes since the last edition.
2
Jersey Basics; Fabric, Trim, Lettering
Fabric evolution, sleeve types, fabric types and colors, Cool Base adoption tables for each team, Flex Base new for 2016, different types of trim, techniques of jersey lettering, introduction to lettering patterns, different ways that player name on back (NOB) are applied, MLB and team sleeve patches, official team undershirts.
3
Manufacturer Tagging
Visible and hidden manufacturer tagging on game jerseys can tell us when the jersey was made and whether it was made for the team’s use on the field, or made for retail sale. Covers all companies who have made game jerseys since 1970.
4
Commemorative Patches
All event and memorial patches worn by multiple teams as directed by the league: for a single day, for an entire season or anything in between. Includes All-Star Game and postseason patches, as well as league anniversary patches and memorial ribbon patches.
5
Special Event Game Jerseys
A breakdown of all the different types of special-event jerseys teams wear in MLB, starting with first St. Patrick’s Day jerseys of the early 1980s. Includes the evolution of the wide range of ethnic celebration jerseys, Turn back the Clock, Negro League Tributes, Jackie Robinson Day, “Ring Ceremony” jerseys, and holiday jerseys including Memorial Day, US Independence Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.
6
"Fake Authentics:" Avoiding Retail Counterfeits
This chapter addresses the oxymoronic concept of Counterfeit Authentics: store-bought (or, more usually, Internet-sourced) jerseys that purport to be authentic like those worn on the field, but are actually sweatshop-sewn fakes designed to defraud buyers, legitimate manufacturers, and even the MLB players whose names they bear.
7
"Is It Game Worn?" A Basic Guide to Authentication
A moderately deep-dive into things that authenticators look for to determine if a game-worn jersey really IS game worn. Reading this chapter won’t make you an expert, but it will give you a lot to think about when considering making a purchase for your collection.
8
Batting Practice and Spring Training Jerseys
Since they first appeared in the 1970s, official team warmup gear has grown in popularity among collectors as a colorful and lower-priced entry to the hobby. This chapter details all the phases of BP jersey development and marketing right through the new-for 2020 Spring Training jerseys and the newest iteration of batting practice jerseys released for 2020.
