The 1979 Tampa Bay Rays had the best uniforms in baseball that year.

Alright, the team didn't really come into existence until 1998, but the hypothetical throwback uniforms they unveiled on Wednesday sure make it look like they would have been. The team sent out a picture via Twitter that shows manager Joe Maddon modeling the make-believe threads.

The uniform looks so retro and loud it could easily pass as an actual team uniform from the era. The baby blue colors, pullover style and font are perfect touches. To add a feel of authenticity, there is a patch on the left sleeve of the jersey that features a City of St. Petersburg seal used in 1979.

My only issue with the jersey is that it reads "Tampa Bay" across the front but the St. Petersburg seal on the sleeve. Although, it is quite possible that the team would've had a geographical identity crisis since then.

According to the team's press release they plan on making it an annual event.

“We want to thank our great partners at Majestic Athletic and Major League Baseball for helping bring this unique concept to life,” said Rays Senior Vice President Mark Fernandez. “Everyone with the Rays is excited to make this an annual event, and something Rays fans will look forward to every year with great anticipation, starting with our Turn Back the Clock night on June 30.”

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The Rays opponent that day, the Detroit Tigers, will wear a uniform based on their actual 1979 road gray jersey. They have less artistic interpretation since they were actually in existence in the 1970s.

If the visual cues aren't enough to take fans back in time, the team will have Earth Wind & Fire perform in a post-game concert after the game at Tropicana Field.

Previous turn back the clock night uniforms have included the University of Tampa Spartans, St Petersburg Pelicans, Tampa Tarpons and Tampa Smokers jerseys.

Jamal Wilburg is a Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report. All quotes were obtained firsthand via official Tampa Bay Rays Press Release.

