Skechers Snags Dodgers Infielder Away From New Balance
There is always plenty of buzz surrounding every MLB clubhouse at the start of Spring Training. Players meet their new teammates, records are even, and the optimism for the new season is endless.
After a busy offseason, no team is more excited to get started than the Los Angeles Dodgers. The organization went all-in on the signings of Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto to reaffirm its grip on the National League West division.
Even better, veteran pitcher Clayton Kershaw was brought back on a two-year deal. Kershaw's impact on the team cannot be overstated. Even his Skechers footwear is beginning to catch on with teammates.
Dodgers shortstop Chris Taylor was spotted wearing Skechers cleats in a blue and white colorway on the practice field at Camelback Ranch in Arizona. Taylor had previously been a New Balance athlete since entering MLB in 2014.
Skechers is no stranger to baseball. The brand signed legends of the sport like Tommy Lasorda, Pete Rose, Mariano Rivera, Ozzie Smith, and David Ortiz to ambassadorship deals after their professional careers ended.
Since gaining a new foothold in MLB with Kershaw in 2019, the Los Angeles-based brand has rapidly revitalized its roster of current professional athletes. In addition to Kershaw and Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Wade Miley, the brand has signed top talent in the NBA, soccer, and golf.
However, Skechers still faces an uphill battle in baseball. For comparison, a recent study found that 20% of MLB players wear New Balance, whereas Skechers only has a negligible amount of representation in the big leagues.
But having two players from the most glamorous franchise in baseball is no small feat. A rising tide lifts all boats, and the Dodgers' star-studded roster will benefit the entire organization from top to bottom.
With Opening Day just over one month away, fans should expect more exciting developments soon. Stay locked into FanNationKicks.com for all your footwear news from the sports world.