Astros join Rangers, Angels with banned hats

The Overlap collection, featuring oversized and overlapped team lettering, was initially intended to provide a modern twist on traditional team caps. However, the design flaws turned some of these hats into unintended punchlines. Despite the removal of the Rangers, Astros, and Angels caps, 27 other Overlap hats remain available for purchase.

While MLB and New Era are likely embarrassed by the botched rollout, the situation has turned into an unexpected payday for some opportunistic buyers. The Rangers’ now-infamous cap has become a highly sought-after collector’s item, with some listings on eBay selling for as much as $1,000. Originally priced at $44.99, these hats have skyrocketed in value due to their immediate scarcity.

Even knockoff versions have begun appearing online, with at least one eBay seller offering replicas of the Rangers cap for $36. According to reports, over 120 knockoff versions had been sold as of midday Wednesday. Some of the original caps purchased before MLB pulled them from shelves are reportedly being shipped out, adding to their allure as rare collectibles.

For the Astros and Angels, the removal of their caps hasn’t resulted in quite the same level of secondary market frenzy. While the “ASHOS” and “ANAELS” hats were mocked, they didn’t generate the same viral response as the Rangers’ blunder. However, they remain amusing footnotes in what has quickly become one of the most bizarre MLB merchandise fiascos in recent memory.

The Overlap collection’s failure highlights the fine line between creativity and misfire in sports branding. While MLB and New Era undoubtedly intended to create a unique look, the outcome has largely been a mix of confusion and unintended humor. For those lucky enough to have secured one of the now-banned caps, they may own one of the strangest pieces of baseball memorabilia in recent history.