To beard or not to beard? That is the question the 21st-century New York Yankees must answer. From being serial winners to being dubbed the “Evil Empire”, Bronx fans enjoy the villainous reputation their team commands. But one topic still divides the fanbase – the team’s bizarre beard policy. A recent picture of Gleyber Torres has once again ignited a heated debate regarding facial hair.

The “no-beard” policy that George Steinbrenner introduced in the 70s has slowly become controversial. With some fans clamoring to see the players sporting luscious and glorious beards, Torres’ recent picture has reignited the discussion on why the rule must end.

Gleyber Torres’ adorable father-son moment sparks grooming debate

The New York Yankees’ beard policy has long been called an unnecessary restriction on players. The rule started in 1976 due to the late George Steinbrenner’s experience in the Air Force giving him a liking for strict grooming. With players not allowed to sport a beard in Yankees’ jerseys, it becomes a talking point when they do it outside of baseball. Like Gleyber Torres this winter.

Talkin’ Yanks on Instagram recently highlighted the dreary offseason with a picture of Torres lying with his son on his lap, both dejectedly staring somewhere off-camera. The caption read, “Waiting for baseball season like” and while many agreed, Torres’ hairy face caught fan attention.

It has almost become a ritual for Gleyber Torres to grow a beard during offseasons. He’s considered by many to have the best facial hair in the Bombers squad, since Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole have occasionally been spotted with facial hair too. But most agree that Torres is the chief mascot of fans who oppose the no-beard policy.

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“Free the beard!” say New York Yankees fans

Fans had some hilarious comments on this picture. A few joked that a beard could improve Torres’ performance. One commented – “Bearded Gleyber is hitting .290 with 32 HR and sn .870 OPS.”  While one user was clear in their demand – the no beard policy must go – “Yanks gotta get rid of the no beard rule cuz beared Gleyber boutta make me act up” 

One felt that the Yankees would look better with a beard, “Yanks would look so much better if they’d allow them to grow beards”. There are of course naysayers, one even prefers the clean-shaven Torres. “Hot take, but I do not like Gleyber with a beard”.

What do you think? The performance factor aside, do you adhere to tradition or think it’s time for a change in the Bronx?

Read more: Assessing If Yankees’ No-Facial Hair Rule Limits Their Roster Options in a Limited Free Agent and Trade Market