Yankees Legend's Surprising Reaction to Beard Policy Change

The image is surprising for those who watched Jeter’s Hall of Fame career, during which he won five World Series titles under the team’s strict grooming rules. Jeter’s signature clean-shaven look was a staple throughout his playing days.

His former teammate CC Sabathia, who is at the Yankees' 2024 Spring Training while sporting facial hair, responded enthusiastically: "MY CAPTAIN!!"

Jeter, a 14-time All-Star and World Series MVP, was known for embracing Yankees tradition. Throughout his career, he insisted on calling his first big-league manager, Joe Torre, "Mr. Torre."

So, it's a little surprising that he's fully embracing the change.

After nearly 50 years of banning facial hair below the lip, Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner amended the rule on Feb. 21 to allow "well-groomed" beards going forward.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions.

Jeter's successor, Aaron Judge, isn't a fan of the change. He told reporters he would not be growing a beard and even asked Steinbrenner not to alter other long-standing team rules. Judge believes the Yankees' strict policies help instill discipline.

"That was one of my big things – rules are all about discipline, especially playing with the Yankees," Judge said. "It's a disciplined group. That's one thing I learned all the way from the minor leagues up. You have those certain rules that teach you discipline, teach you a certain way."

Another of Jeter's former teammates, Johnny Damon, also spoke out in favor of tradition. Damon interrupted his vacation to post an Instagram video advocating for a return to the previous grooming rules.