NEW YORK — The New York Yankees are embracing a fresh and vibrant image as they prepare for their first World Series appearance since 2009. Known for their traditional values, complete with an iconic granite-and-limestone stadium and classic pinstriped uniforms that have remained unchanged since 1936, the team has recently introduced a striking new color: Statue of Liberty green.
“I’ve been looking for an accent color, and I think the Statue of Liberty, along with its significance to New York City and State, makes a perfect choice,” stated team captain Aaron Judge, who sparked this colorful trend.
Despite being recognized as the most conservatively styled team in baseball, the Yankees are showcasing a more modern and expressive identity. Traditionally, players have adhered to strict grooming standards — including a ban on long hair and beards established by owner George Steinbrenner in 1976. Yet, as witnessed with players like Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Alex Verdugo flaunting flashy jewelry, and Juan Soto entering the field to a dembow track that celebrates his unique “Soto Shuffle,” this roster is far from the team of the past.
The bright mint green details are evident throughout the roster, adorning everything from shoes and chest protectors to batting gloves and sliding mitts. The team seems to take pride in this new look, willing to embrace the lighthearted comparison to statues in terms of their fashion choices.
Judge stands as the Yankees’ key influencer; when he adopts the green accents, the rest of the team follows suit. Reliever Jake Cousins reflected on his initiation into the team this season, recalling his arrival at the team hotel in Phoenix shortly after being acquired. He described a welcoming moment where Judge, waiting for him at the bus, greeted him warmly and offered support, illustrating his strong leadership qualities.
At 32, Judge is likely on track to secure his second AL MVP award. Having joined the Yankees organization in 2013 and making his major league debut three years later, he was named the team’s captain in December 2022, becoming the first to hold the title since Derek Jeter.
“Being part of the Yankees for a long time, I’ve always admired how veteran players conduct themselves, and I wanted to contribute to that culture,” Judge shared. “I strive to help our younger players acclimate quickly and feel they belong, as this ultimately enhances our collective success.”
Yankees manager Aaron Boone noted the sense of camaraderie that emerged when players began arriving for minor league workouts in Tampa, Florida, last January, ahead of spring training. Of the 26 players on the active roster during the AL Championship Series, five were new additions who found their footing after joining the team.
Nestor Cortes exemplified the tonal transformation, commissioning a mint green glove decorated with a navy torch and an orange Statue of Liberty flame. He even had “Hialeah Kid” stitched into the glove’s leather. Cortes reached out to his equipment supplier, 44 Pro, to customize the design based on the team’s new green trend. “I thought it would be great to blend in the spirit of New York along with some mint color,” he explained.
The glove was used successfully during a game on June 18 against Baltimore, showcasing his unique style. Interestingly, the MLB later prohibited him from using the glove due to its distraction to opposing batters.
Since joining the Yankees on July 27, Chisholm has added further flair to the team’s vibe. As a co-owner of a glove company, Absolutely Ridiculous Innovation for Athletes (ARIA), he ensured to bring appropriately colored equipment upon his debut at Fenway Park on July 28.
For the World Series, Chisholm is equipped with navy blue gloves featuring metallic gold, one adorned with 27 flames and another with 27 pennants, emblematic of the Yankees’ record championship titles.
Additionally, his presence has influenced the musical atmosphere at Yankee Stadium. With his dynamic energy, the organist often plays tracks like “All That Jazz” from the musical “Chicago” and “Take Five” by Paul Desmond whenever he fouls off pitches. Boone noted, “His energy lights up the park every day, bringing a sense of joy and enthusiasm to our team.”
