Frank Thomas sues White Sox, Nike and Fanatics over jersey sales
Chicago Sun-Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Hall of Famer Frank Thomas has filed a lawsuit against the Chicago White Sox, Nike, and Fanatics, alleging unauthorized use of his name and No. 35 on the team's "City Connect 2.0" jerseys without his consent or compensation.
- Thomas claims the White Sox and associated companies have been unjustly enriched by profiting from his likeness, violating Illinois' Right of Publicity Act, and is seeking over $50,000 plus legal fees and punitive damages.
- The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between Thomas and the White Sox, including past legal battles and recent social media controversies involving recognition of his contributions to the franchise.
- The jerseys featuring Thomas' name remain on sale despite the lawsuit, and a court hearing on the matter is scheduled for May.
- The White Sox and Nike have declined to comment on the active litigation, while Fanatics has not responded to requests for comment.
