The Big Lead

Yankees New Beard Policy Revealed and Why they Changed Tradition

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By John Robinson IV

Oct 30, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge (99) makes a fielding error during the fifth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game five of the 2024 MLB World Series at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Oct 30, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge (99) makes a fielding error during the fifth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game five of the 2024 MLB World Series at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images / Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
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For nearly five decades, the New York Yankees’ facial hair policy has been one of the most iconic and unique traditions in Major League Baseball. However, in a surprising move, the franchise has finally amended its rule, allowing players and staff to sport well-groomed beards for the first time since the 1970s.

The Yankees’ clean-cut policy, which only permitted mustaches while prohibiting beards and long hair, was originally implemented by late owner George Steinbrenner. It was seen as a representation of professionalism and discipline, but over the years, it became an unusual outlier in a league where personal grooming styles have evolved.

Managing General Partner Hal Steinbrenner released a statement explaining the organization’s decision to modernize the policy. “In recent weeks, I have spoken to a large number of former and current Yankees spanning several eras to elicit their perspectives on our long-standing facial hair and grooming policy,” Steinbrenner stated. “Ultimately, the final decision rests with me, and after great consideration, we will be amending our expectations to allow well-groomed beards moving forward.”

While this policy shift marks a significant change, it does not eliminate grooming standards entirely. Yankees players must still maintain a professional appearance, and the specifics of the amendment suggest that excessively long hair remains prohibited.

The change has already sparked discussion among fans and media, with some speculating that newly acquired relief pitcher Devin Williams may have played a role in influencing the decision. Williams, who sported facial hair with the Milwaukee Brewers, arrived at Yankees camp with noticeable scruff, prompting theories that his presence may have been the final push needed for the organization to reconsider its stance.

Many players across the league have embraced facial hair as part of their identity, and for some, the Yankees' rule had been a deterrent in considering New York as a potential destination in free agency. With the amendment, the Yankees may now appeal to a broader pool of players who prefer to maintain their beards while donning the iconic pinstripes.

While this shift is historic, the Yankees’ commitment to tradition remains strong. Yet, in a modern MLB landscape where individuality and self-expression are more accepted than ever, this policy change signals that even the most storied franchises must evolve with the times.