Devin Williams made his first appearance at Yankees Spring Training on Wednesday, drawing immediate attention—not for his pitching, but for his clean-shaven look. The right-hander, known for his signature beard, arrived without facial hair, complying with the Yankees’ longstanding grooming policy. Even MLB’s official account took notice, posting:
“Almost didn’t recognize Devin Williams without a beard today at Yankees Spring Training.”
Fans quickly reacted, with many calling for the Yankees to update or abolish the rule.
Baseball fans call for change to Yankees’ grooming policy
The debate over the Yankees’ appearance policy has persisted for decades, with many believing it strips players of their individuality. A Yankees fan on X (formerly Twitter) expressed frustration:
“They don’t need to get rid of the beard rule, but it needs to be updated. A clean, tight beard should be allowed. When some say players lose aura coming here, they’re not always wrong. Devin Williams looks way better on the left than on the right. Time for change.”
Another fan pushed for a complete reversal:
“I know tradition is important; however, you got to let these players be themselves. Let the beard and hair grow already. Let them feel comfortable on the field. Set them free!”
The Yankees’ strict grooming policy, which dates back to former owner George Steinbrenner, only allows mustaches while banning beards and long hair. It remains one of baseball’s most unique—and controversial—team rules.
Do players avoid the Yankees because of the beard rule?
While many players have accepted the policy for a lucrative contract, some argue that it could be a deterrent in free agency.
Cameron Maybin, who played for the Yankees in 2019, suggested in 2023 that it hurts the team’s ability to attract talent:
“You wouldn’t believe how many quality players just think it’s a wack rule to have.”
However, the rule hasn’t stopped major signings in the past. Gerrit Cole ($324 million in 2019), Carlos Rodon ($162 million in 2023), and Johnny Damon ($52 million in 2005) all shaved for the opportunity to wear pinstripes. Even Randy Johnson, known for his rugged look, cut his signature mullet in 2005 to play in the Bronx.
Former Yankees captain Don Mattingly famously clashed with the organization over his hair length in 1991, even getting benched for a game. Looking back, Mattingly admitted it wasn’t about the hair itself but how the rule was enforced:
“Nobody said anything to me about getting it cut before that. Then that day, it was either get it cut or you don’t play. That rubbed me the wrong way.”
Many former Yankees waste no time growing facial hair once they depart. Jordan Montgomery, who spent years clean-shaven in New York, sported a full beard while helping the Texas Rangers win the 2023 World Series.
Aneudys Duran, a personal barber for several MLB stars, including Aaron Judge, Mike Trout, and Max Scherzer, said the Yankees’ rule is often a factor for players before joining the team.
“Nobody really talks about it unless a player is traded. Then it’s like, ‘Damn, I have to shave and change my look.’”
While Duran respects the Yankees’ tradition, he believes a compromise is possible:
“If it stays clean, just loosen up a little bit and let the kids be who they are.”
Despite repeated calls for change, the Yankees have shown no signs of softening their stance. Even as corporate dress codes and personal grooming standards evolve, the Bronx Bombers remain committed to their old-school image.
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