The New York Yankees have officially updated their facial hair and grooming policy for the first time in nearly 50 years, now allowing well-groomed beards. Owner Hal Steinbrenner announced the change after consultations with former and current players, emphasizing the need to evolve beyond the rigid standards established by his father, George Steinbrenner, in 1976. This decision, which marks a Cultural Shift within the franchise, reflects a broader acceptance of personal expression within Major League Baseball while still upholding a level of professionalism.
Ultimately the final decision rests with me, and after great consideration, we will be amending our expectations to allow our players and uniformed personnel 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.
It is the appropriate time to move beyond the familiar comfort of our former policy.
George Steinbrenner implemented the mandate before the 1976 season, leaving players with a choice of being clean-shaven or wearing a mustache.
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