This MLB-Exclusive Air Jordan 2 Draws Inspiration from the Louisville Slugger®

Michael Jordan's short-lived professional baseball career has been well-documented over the years by diehard fans of both "His Airness" and the sport—including Jordan Brand.

In addition to signing exciting talent in Major League Baseball (MLB), MJ's eponymous imprint continues to develop product for and inspired by the diamond. The latest arrives in the form of an exclusive Air Jordan 2 that references the iconic Louisville Slugger® bat.

Shared via social media by Puneet Singh—also known as @solesupreme—the retro has reportedly been crafted solely for Jordan Brand-sponsored athletes in MLB. At quick glance, the pair may appear like a tweaked, faux-aged edition of the second Air Jordan model, but close inspection reveals a number of elements rooted in baseball's gear.

Woodgrain-like detailing adorns overlays across the profile, opting for a slightly-yellow finish found around the collar, forefoot, and lower hind-foot. Gaps in-between the tip of the toe and top of the tongue deviate in a pitch-black nubuck. The bulk of the midsole also indulges in a dark-colored presentation, creating stark contrast from most of the top-half.

Red-colored elements appear throughout the upper, delivering a parallel between Jordan Brand and Hillerich & Bradsby Company (H&B), the iconic wooden bat's original manufacturer. Another call out to the North American sports equipment company arrives on the tongue in the form of a special His Heirness & Co. logo.

Other references to the Louisville Slugger® include a Louisville, KY tab on the lateral ankle and the year 1894 emboridered onto the top of the spine. "Louisville Slugger" was trademarked in that year.

Enjoy detailed photos of the special Jordan 2 retro ahead. Pairs will not see a Nike.com/Jordan release at some point, but other baseball-inspired products could launch to the public in the future.

For more footwear news from Team Jumpman, bookmark the House of Heat° Jordan Release Dates Calendar.