TAMPA — The Yankees are about to embrace a new look.

In a historic move, the Yankees will permit their players and coaching staff to grow beards for the first time in nearly five decades. Hal Steinbrenner announced on Friday that the team is updating its facial hair policy, which was established by his father, George Steinbrenner, in 1976. The only requirement is that the beards must be “well-groomed.”

Hal Steinbrenner described this decision as long overdue, noting that he consulted with numerous individuals, including both current and former Yankees, before determining that the previous policy was “outdated” and “somewhat unreasonable.”

Addressing those who speculated that his father would disapprove, Steinbrenner suggested otherwise. “Winning was my father’s top priority,” he explained during a press conference at George M. Steinbrenner Field, shortly after informing the team about the new policy. “If someone came to him and suggested that this change could help us attract the players we desire, I think he might be more open to this shift than people realize, as it ultimately comes down to winning.”

Steinbrenner emphasized that if he discovered that a potential player declined to join the team due to the facial hair restrictions, it would raise significant concerns. “I am quite convinced that this is a genuine issue,” he stated.

While Steinbrenner could not confirm if any free agents had turned down offers from the Yankees over the previous policy, manager Aaron Boone mentioned he had “loosely” heard that it could deter some players. He added that losing even one player over the facial hair rule would be “too many.”

General manager Brian Cashman stated, “It’s about time. This was not a simple decision for Hal Steinbrenner, but he arrived at it based on ample information over time.”

He likened the organization to a large naval vessel, emphasizing that “it takes time to turn.”

Steinbrenner, who acknowledges his father’s military background and emphasis on discipline, confirmed that the regulation prohibiting hair below the collar will remain unchanged.

In recent seasons, some players have tested the limits of the facial hair policy, leading Boone to occasionally remind them it was time to shave.

New closer Devin Williams, who joined from the Brewers, was reluctant to shave his beard on the first day of workouts last week, holding on to it until the last moment, and still showing more than stubble during the team’s photo day earlier this week.

“I believe it’s appropriate,” stated Gerrit Cole, who, along with Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, had a one-on-one conversation with Steinbrenner recently. “It makes sense. This rule still maintains our neat appearance but allows for personal expression and fewer razor burns.”

As for the definition of a “well-groomed” beard?

“The only clarification we received from Cash was that we aren’t trying to emulate Duck Dynasty,” Cole joked. “No offense to Duck Dynasty; when you’re out there in the woods, you don’t exactly have many options.”

Although the announcement surprised some in the clubhouse, opinions varied on whether players and staff would begin growing beards right away.

Overall, the prevailing sentiment was that this was the right choice—not only for allowing players to express their individuality but also for enhancing the Yankees’ ability to attract top talent.

“It’s challenging for players to perform at their best when they don’t feel comfortable in their own skin,” commented Marcus Stroman, noting that the previous facial hair rule had been a frequent topic of discussion throughout the league. “This change is significant. When we’re on the field, it’s essential to have absolute confidence.”