Chesapeake Baysox Revive Controversial Logo… for a Cause

The Chesapeake Baysox, Double-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, debuted an alternate brand that has seen a lot of turmoil on its way from initial announcement to on-field debut. Just over three months after the team inadvertently went viral when they unveiled their “Oyster Catchers” alternate brand, the Baysox took to the field wearing the new look.

When the brand was first unveiled, the entire internet couldn’t help but notice that one of the marks in the suite of logos, affectionately referred to as the “mittoris” online, resembled an intimate part of the female body. After scrubbing the logo from their website, social media, and team store, the Baysox had a change of heart and decided to embrace the online attention for a cause.

The Baysox teamed up with Cervical, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to cervical cancer advocacy and education and brought the brand back—albeit in a tamer, less anatomically correct form.

Per the team, “The updated design features a baseball glove with a teal and white cervical cancer ribbon and a pearl, reflecting the Chesapeake Bay’s iconic oyster, while symbolizing strength, hope, and the team’s commitment to supporting those affected by cervical cancer.”

Ten percent of all Oyster Catchers merchandise sales this season will be donated directly to the Cervical, Inc., and Minor League Baseball will match the Baysox’s donations. The Oyster Catchers won their long-awaited debut last night, 4-3 over the Altoona Curve.