TAMPA, Fla. — The New York Yankees have officially lifted their longstanding ban on beards, which had been in place for nearly half a century. The decision, announced by current owner Hal Steinbrenner, aims to enhance player recruitment as the team strives to secure their first World Series championship since 2009.
Hal Steinbrenner, son of the late George Steinbrenner, made the announcement on Friday just before the team’s spring training opener, characterizing the ban as “outdated” and “somewhat unreasonable.” During a press conference, accompanied by general manager Brian Cashman, he stated, “This generation, the vast majority of men in their 20s, 30s, and even into their 40s have beards. It’s a significant aspect of their identity and personal expressiveness. While I may find it challenging to relate to since I’ve never had a beard, I recognize that many players view it as a crucial part of their character.”
The rule originally enforced by George Steinbrenner in 1976 prohibited players from sporting long hair or beards, allowing only mustaches. While players generally complied, some took liberties with the guidelines by presenting themselves with unshaven facial hair or allowing their hair to extend beyond regulation limits.
Hal Steinbrenner explained his father’s convictions by referencing his military background, which influenced his belief that teams should maintain a disciplined appearance. “To my father, having a structured team looked like discipline, which was important to him,” he said. “However, winning was always his top priority, and that is something I keep in mind.”
Since assuming control of the Yankees in late 2008, Hal Steinbrenner has been contemplating this change for a considerable duration, discussing the matter with key players like Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and Gerrit Cole. After these discussions, he publicly stated earlier in the day that the team’s policies would be updated to permit players and team personnel to maintain well-groomed beards going forward.
General manager Cashman recounted how former pitcher CC Sabathia hesitated before joining the Yankees back in 2009, partially due to the hair policy. Additionally, he noted a situation involving an agent this offseason who was uncertain whether a potential sign-up would be willing to comply with the previous facial hair regulations.
Some current players have expressed their discomfort regarding the beard policy, stating their personal preferences contrasted with the mandate, yet acknowledged the necessity of adhering to the rules. Just a few days ago, players received reminders in the clubhouse chairs to arrive clean-shaven for photo day.
All-Star closer Devin Williams, who joined the Yankees from Milwaukee, was seen sporting a beard in his team photo— a look he maintained while playing for the Brewers and is eligible for free agency at the end of this season.
“This franchise holds a unique position in baseball’s history,” Cashman remarked. “The Yankees’ logo carries significant meaning, and we want to ensure that not only past and present players respect this, but that future players recognize it as well. While we will retain certain important traditions, as Hal mentioned, our focus is on maintaining a championship-caliber franchise and pursuing victories.”
Outfielder Alex Verdugo, traded to the Yankees before the 2024 season, had to part ways with his long hair. Meanwhile, players Clay Holmes and Gleyber Torres arrived at this year’s spring training sporting beards after previously leaving the team.
Holmes expressed his surprise over the change, given how long the ban had remained in effect. George Steinbrenner originally implemented the facial hair policy in the interest of promoting discipline among players, famously stating in 1976, “I have nothing against long hair per se, but I aim to create a sense of order and discipline within the team.”
Historically, the Cincinnati Reds instituted a facial hair ban back in 1902, with strict enforcement emerging in 1967 under general manager Bon Howsam. This ban was ultimately revoked in early 1999 by owner Marge Schott, following requests from newly acquired player Greg Vaughn from San Diego.
