It is not easy to make it to the MLB today. The competition is fierce and the standards continue to rise. Furthermore, once a player makes it, they have to fight to hold on to that spot. Some organizations have further rules and standards regarding player conduct and discipline. The New York Yankees are one of those organizations, with their iconic and strict dress code. 

Most recently, the Bronx Bombers’ Minor League skipper revealed her secret tactic for enforcing these rules. Although most players are happy to follow it, for some of them she uses a unique approach. 

New York Yankees’ Minor League Manager Rachel Balkovec reveals her way of enforcing the dress code

For many decades, the Yankees have had a strict Appearance Policy that was first introduced by legendary team owner George Steinbrenner. This rule stipulates a clean-shaven face with only a mustache being allowed. Furthermore, a player’s hair cannot touch their collars. Most recently, Minor League Manager Rachel Balkovec revealed her unique approach to enforcing the policy.

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She used a funny one-liner to remind players to neaten up their appearance. Although her players comply most of the time, she sometimes has to bring out this line. The Foul Territory Podcast shared a video of her sharing this story on Twitter. 

In the video, Balkovec said, “I’m like hey, like do you play for the Yankees? They always fall for it, they’re like ‘What do you mean?’ Oh, I just thought you played for the Diamondbacks because you got a bunch of sh*t on your face.“ 

This is one of the tactics that she uses to keep any rule breakers in line with regard to the appearance policy. But Balkovec has been making waves as a pioneer for women in baseball, and management in particular. 

Balkovec is the first woman to full-time manage a Major League-affiliated team

Last year, Rachel Balkovec achieved history when she was named the Manager for the Tampa Tarpons. She became the first woman to be a full-time manager for a Major League-affiliated team. Balkovec understands the significance of her role but has credited the women who came before her. But the Minor League skipper is looking to make it to an MLB front office someday. 

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What do you think of the unique method used by the New York Yankees’ Minor League manager Rachel Balkovec? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.