Nike's City Connect program expanded in 2026 with eight teams unveiling second-generation uniforms. Atlanta, Baltimore, Cincinnati, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, San Diego, and Texas all received new designs, bringing the total to 37 City Connect uniforms across the league. The Athletics and Yankees remain the only teams without such a uniform.

Player reactions were largely positive, with Ronald Acuna Jr. loving the Braves' powder blue throwback and Hunter Greene approving the Reds' pinstripes. Designs incorporated local elements like Baltimore's area code "410" on sleeve patches and Kansas City's fountain-inspired gradients. Cole Ragans specifically appreciated the "Hey Hey Hey Hey" collar referencing The Beatles.

ESPN's grades ranged from A- for the Braves' retro design to C- for the Brewers' "Wisco" lettering. Pittsburgh received a C for its black and gold scheme, while Kansas City earned a C for its purple-accented gradient. The polarizing nature of these uniforms continues to spark debate among fans about tradition versus innovation in baseball aesthetics.