The strict beard policy of the New York Yankees has been a topic of discussion, especially when the team acquired Milwaukee Brewers closer Devin Williams in the off-season.
Williams arrived at spring training with his beard still intact but eventually shaved it off before joining the team. However, his beard seems to grow back quickly, as evidenced by his official Yankees team photo.
The photo shows more than just a hint of stubble.
The Yankees’ stringent facial hair policy dates back to the 1970s when former owner George Steinbrenner banned beards and long hair, allowing only clean-shaven faces or mustaches on the team.
While some players like Don Mattingly have rebelled against the policy, it remains in place after five decades. Williams seemed unfazed by the attention his beard received, suggesting it may have been just a few days of neglecting to shave.
This raises the question of when a bit of stubble crosses the line into a beard according to the Yankees.
In December, the Yankees acquired Williams in a trade that involved sending Nestor Cortes, Caleb Durbin, and cash to the Brewers. This move added one of the top relievers in baseball to the team, as Williams boasts a career 1.83 ERA in 235 2/3 innings, with 375 strikeouts and only 129 hits allowed.
Williams is slated to become a free agent after this season, where he will earn $8.6 million. Securing him for the long term is likely a priority for the Yankees in the upcoming months.