In 2025, eight Major League Baseball teams—the Arizona Diamondbacks, Boston Red Sox, Chicago White Sox, Colorado Rockies, Houston Astros, Miami Marlins, San Francisco Giants, and Washington Nationals—unveiled new City Connect uniforms, marking a noteworthy continuation of the Nike-led alternate uniform program that began in 2021. This release signifies the second City Connect design for each of these clubs, following the initial uniforms presented in previous seasons.

A ranking of the eight new City Connect uniforms for 2025 offers varied perspectives. The Miami Marlins' Havana Sugar Kings-inspired design previously held the top spot last summer, but opinions have shifted. The second iteration, referred to as the 'Retrowave' uniform, has drawn criticism for straying from the uniqueness of the first design. The Marlins describe their new aesthetic as merging their history with a modern outlook; however, critics argue that this characterization feels overstated given the franchise's relatively short history despite two World Series championships. Elements such as the horizontal pinstripes and the color palette evoke comparisons to the Miami Heat's alternate jerseys, raising concerns about originality. The hats, featuring the area's 305 code, have also faced scrutiny for their lack of creativity.

Turning to the Chicago White Sox, the team has faced a more challenging reception for their second City Connect design. While the previous 'Southside' uniforms garnered positive reactions, the new crossover concept inspired by the Chicago Bulls has met with mixed reviews. Although the crossover idea may intrigue fans on social media, it has not resonated well in the context of MLB gameplay. The shared ownership of the White Sox and Bulls by Jerry Reinsdorf, who is not universally admired in baseball, adds another layer of complexity to reception. Additionally, nostalgic references to past Bulls uniforms were sidelined, leading to a design that has been perceived as underwhelming.

The Washington Nationals' second City Connect uniforms embrace a 'District Blueprint' theme, incorporating a design inspired by the D.C. street grid. The uniforms feature an interlocking 'DC' logo, honoring the team's visual history from 2006 to 2010. While the batting helmets pride themselves on cherry blossom motifs remaining, the cap's color contrasts with the uniforms, presenting a minor visual discord that detracts from an otherwise coherent design. Although the Nationals' original uniforms paid tribute to the cherry blossom season, this second iteration has been met with disappointment by some, who feel it does not uphold the same zenith as its predecessor.

The Colorado Rockies have infused their second City Connect design with a 'from sunrise to sunset' theme. However, critics have observed that the color choices lean more towards a desert aesthetic, deviating from the aesthetic connected to Colorado's identity. The original City Connects struck an authentic chord for fans, contrasting sharply with this new iteration that feels more akin to minor league attire. Many fans and analysts reflect on the previous license plate-inspired designs with fondness, emphasizing their compelling visual appeal.

In contrast, the San Francisco Giants' second City Connect uniforms appear to be a significant upgrade from the first. While the initial foggy Golden Gate Bridge theme was intriguing but executed poorly, the new design pays homage to the rich music culture of the city. Although the Giants possess notable orange-and-black alternate tops, the jerseys introduced this season have garnered positive attention. A primary critique emerges from the choice not to include the iconic interlocking 'SF' logo, which many believe should serve as a central aspect of any Giants cap design.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have reimagined their original desert sand-colored 'Serpientes' City Connect uniforms, blending in hues of purple and teal that hark back to the franchise's roots from 1998-2006. While the initial uniforms were well-received, they have successfully left an impression with this vibrant iteration. Although some may argue for the retention of 'A' caps or traditional snake designs, the new 'S' logo resonates well, creating a louder presence than seen during the franchise's earlier years. There is hope among fans that this transition signifies a shift away from 'Sedona Red' hues permanently towards a full embrace of purple and teal.

The Houston Astros have notably improved upon their first 'Space City' uniforms, which were criticized for their repetitiveness and similarity to existing alternate tops. The revised City Connect design retains the space theme yet introduces a fresh white-on-white look that enhances its appeal as a home alternate. Additionally, the inclusion of the Union Station logo on the left sleeve serves as an homage to the historic train line, seamlessly blending past and present elements of the franchise.

Finally, the Boston Red Sox have successfully created a modern classic with their second City Connect design, honoring the iconic Green Monster at Fenway Park. While the design draws associations with the Boston Marathon due to yellow numbers, it primarily pays tribute to Pesky's Pole, integral to the famed ballpark’s landscape. This uniform stands out for its visually pleasing shade of green and the classic use of the recognizable 'B' on the cap, marking it as one of the most notable contributions within the City Connect program and a fresh interpretation by this storied franchise.