Gerrit Cole might not be bringing back his Astros-era beard anytime soon, but that doesn’t mean he’s not thinking about it. During an interview on Casa Klub last Monday, the Yankees’ ace addressed the team’s long-standing facial hair policy—a rule that has sparked debates for years among fans and players alike.
“I mean, I’ve already let it go a few days,” Gerrit Cole said when asked if he’d consider growing it out again. “That wasn’t acceptable last however long, no. So I think… I like maybe a little bit of the freedom to play the hot hand, you know? What’s working, what’s not?”
Yankees’ facial hair policy
AP
Gerrit Cole acknowledged that while he appreciates the clean-cut look, he also values the flexibility of being able to switch things up. “I like looking younger though as I get older. And I liked looking older when I was younger, so there’s a little bit of that.”
But what about the Yankees’ strict grooming policy? Would he—or any of his teammates—push back against it? Cole was clear: the rule isn’t going anywhere. “As far as I’m concerned, yeah [the policy is still in place]. I believe it’s like, it’s not allowed to touch the jersey. I mean, there’s a lot of leeway with long hair.”
While many fans continue to question whether the Yankees will ever lift the ban, Gerrit Cole doesn’t believe it’s a major issue for players considering signing with New York. “I’ve never heard somebody say they’re not going to go to New York because of a facial hair policy,” he said. “But I could be out of touch with that. I haven’t heard anyone personally say it. I’ve heard stories, but my question is: what’s the price? What is it worth to you to shave it off?”
The Yankees’ ace, now entering his sixth season in the Bronx, understands the tradition and even embraces it. “As a kid, growing up watching the Yankees, I just wanted to do everything the Yankees do. So when I got here, I was ready to shave it off.”
Frustration over the World Series loss
AP
But grooming rules weren’t the only thing on Gerrit Cole’s mind. The right-hander, who played a key role in the Yankees’ deep postseason run last year, still feels the sting of falling just short of a championship. “I think the motivation is really high,” he admitted. “We are really proud of what we did and really frustrated that we didn’t finish it at the same time.”
The Yankees came agonizingly close to a World Series title, only to fall short in the final stretch. Gerrit Cole described the current mood in the clubhouse as quiet, yet determined. “There’s maybe like a little quietness about it. I feel like we are really proud of what we did and really frustrated that we didn’t finish it at the same time. And those two things, I think, are combining for a bit of an edge.”
If there was any doubt about where the Yankees’ focus is heading into the 2025 season, Cole put it to rest. “We know exactly where we want to get to. I’ve been there before, and it really stinks. I don’t want to be there again.”
Gerrit Cole isn’t just hoping for redemption—he expects it.
“The motivation is sky-high, and the focus in camp is laser-sharp,” he said. “Every year, we have high expectations, but this year, there’s just a different feeling. We’re not just looking to be in the conversation. We want to finish it.”
The Yankees ace believes the experience of last year’s postseason run, while painful, will be a crucial factor in their 2025 campaign.
“We learned a lot, and that’s going to help us this year. It’s not about dwelling on what happened—it’s about using it. We have a great group of guys, a great heartbeat in the clubhouse, and we know exactly what it takes to win.”
With his signature intensity and commitment to excellence, Gerrit Cole made one thing clear: whether he’s clean-shaven or letting the stubble grow in spring training, his eyes are locked on one goal—bringing a championship back to the Bronx.
Amanda Paula is a sports writer with a passion for American football and a keen interest in the NY Yankees. Raised among Americans in Brazil, Mandy's unique cultural background has greatly influenced her career and provided her with a diverse perspective on the world of sports.
Born and raised in Brazil, Amanda developed a deep appreciation for sports at a young age. Growing up in a community with a robust American presence, she was exposed to various sports, but baseball captivated her heart. Inspired by the passion and tactics of the game, Amanda dedicated herself to studying and understanding the intricacies of the sport.
Amanda's love for American sports and soccer led her to pursue a career in sports journalism. She obtained a degree in journalism from a prestigious university, where she honed her skills in writing and reporting. Her studies gave her a solid foundation in journalism ethics, research methodologies, and effective storytelling techniques.
After completing her education, Amanda embarked on her professional journey as a sports writer. Her unique background as a Brazilian immersed in American culture gave her a fresh perspective on American sports.
