TAMPA, Fla. — The New York Yankees have officially lifted their longstanding ban on beards, a rule that has been in place for nearly half a century since owner George Steinbrenner enforced it.

Current owner Hal Steinbrenner, the son of the late Steinbrenner, made the announcement just before the team’s first spring training game.

In his statement, Hal Steinbrenner expressed that he had engaged with numerous former and current players from various generations to gather their insights regarding the team’s facial hair and grooming policy.

“These discussions are part of an ongoing internal conversation that has been happening for several years,” he said in his statement. “The final decision was mine to make, and after careful thought, we will modify our guidelines to permit well-groomed beards for our players and staff. It’s time to transition away from the comfort of our old policy.”

Up until recently, the Yankees had reminded players to come to the clubhouse clean-shaven, especially for photo day, with specific instructions left on every player’s seat.

New addition Devin Williams, acquired in an offseason deal from Milwaukee, was seen sporting facial hair for his team photo, highlighting the shift in policy.

Additionally, outfielder Alex Verdugo had to trim his long hair when he joined the Yankees ahead of the upcoming season, demonstrating the strict grooming regulations that have now been relaxed.