X/@NASPpodcast
MLB

New York Yankees Change ‘No Beard Policy,’ Breaking Nearly Half A Century-Old Tradition

By |

Prior to Spring Training in 1976, New York Yankees owner, George Steinbrenner, implemented one of the most widely recognized traditions in sports, outlawing the growth of beards.

Videos by FanBuzz

That is, for Steinbrenner, this was rooted in the belief that a 'clean cut' appearance would promote professionalism and discipline among his players.

With many believing this is an outdated set of rules to have, current owner/son of George, Hal Steinbrenner, announced they are now allowing players to have "well-groomed beards moving forward."

"In recent weeks, I have spoken to a large number of former and current Yankees — spanning several eras — to elicit their perspectives on our longstanding facial hair and grooming policy and I appreciate their earnest and varied feedback. These most recent conversations are an extension of ongoing internal dialogue that dates back several years."

"Ultimately the final decision rests with me," The owner/partner GM continued. "And after great consideration, we will be amending our expectations to allow our players and uniformed personnel to have well-groomed beards moving forward. It is the appropriate time to move beyond the familiar comfort of our former policy."

Fans have reacted to this breaking news, as some think it's an attempt to attract even more free agents moving forward, such as bearded players: Toronto Blue Jays' Vladimir Guerrero Jr. or Chicago Cubs' Kyle Tucker.

However, it should be noted, the Yankees offering huge paychecks probably is the biggest influence for alluring superstars.

Certainly, some players wished they knew about his policy ahead of Spring Training, as newly acquired Milwaukee Brewers reliever Devin Williams was seen without a beard for the first time.

In a recent Jomboy Media interview conducted with current MLB players, there appears to be split opinions on the Yankees facial hair policy across the league.

Some believe traditions should hold true throughout time, while others have the opinion "times have changed."

Either way, certain players undoubtedly will be more grateful than others for the rule change.

Related: New York Yankees Star Aaron Judge Reveals The Role His Wife Played In Big Contract Finalizing Phone Call

MLB

New York Yankees Star Aaron Judge Reveals The Role His Wife Played In Big Contract Finalizing Phone Call

By

MLB

Taylor Trammell, Who Played In 10 Major League Games This Year, Will Receive A World Series Ring No Matter If Yankees Or Dodgers Win

By

MLB

New York Yankees, manager Joe Girardi agree to move on from each other

By

MLB

The man who helped build a New York Yankees dynasty has passed away

By