If you thought you’d never see a bearded New York Yankee, think again. The Bronx Bombers are officially ditching one of their most famous Major League Baseball traditions—the ban on facial hair. Derek Jeter reacts in hilarious fashion, a reaction only a Yankees legend can get away with.
That’s right, starting next season, Yankees players can finally grow out their beards, mustaches, or whatever else they want on their faces. And let’s just say people have thoughts about it.
Derek Jeter Reacts with Humor
One of the most surprising reactions came from none other than Yankees legend Derek Jeter.
The Captain spent his entire playing career sporting the famously clean-shaven Yankees look and took to Instagram to poke a little fun at the situation.
He posted a photoshopped image of himself in a Yankees uniform with a full beard, giving fans a hilarious glimpse of what could have been had this rule been changed a couple of decades earlier.
It was a rare moment of social media humor from Jeter. He was never really one for the memes during his playing days.
Breaking a Decades-Old Tradition
This rule change marks the end of a long-standing Yankees tradition that dates back to the 1970s when late owner George Steinbrenner implemented the no-facial-hair policy.
And while it’s been a signature part of the team’s identity for decades, times are changing.
Current Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner explained the reasoning behind the decision: “I did make the decision that the policy that was in place was outdated.”
He acknowledged that facial hair is the norm today, and clinging to an old rule just didn’t seem reasonable anymore.
What’s Next for Yankees Players?
What does this mean for current players? Well, last season, every Yankees starter followed the rule, including guys like Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole, who have been the faces of the franchise.
But next year? Who knows. Maybe we’ll see Judge rocking a rugged beard or Cole going full-on mountain man mode. The possibilities are endless.
Of course, it won’t be a total free-for-all. Steinbrenner clarified that while the beard ban is lifted, there will still be parameters in place. What exactly are those parameters?
That remains to be seen. But it looks like the Yankees are finally stepping into the modern era.
