The New York Yankees, a franchise steeped in tradition, have entered a new era in 2025. For nearly half a century, Yankees players were forbidden from growing beards, a rule enforced since 1976 by the late owner George Steinbrenner. This season, that changed—and catcher Austin Wells has become the face of the team’s first facial hair superstition, a unique ritual that’s captured the attention of fans and media alike.
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Austin Wells and the Birth of a Yankees Facial Hair Ritual
Austin Wells may use his beard as more than just a style statement. Before Opening Day, Wells and catching coach Tanner Swanson made a pact: they would only shave if the Yankees lost a series. As long as the team kept winning, the razors stayed tucked away. This superstition quickly became a talking point as the Yankees embarked on a hot streak, securing seven consecutive series wins since their early-May loss to Tampa Bay.
Wells, now the Yankees’ starting catcher after the offseason departure of Jose Trevino, has embraced his role in this new chapter. “Hopefully, we don’t lose another series the rest of the year,” he quipped, reflecting the optimism and camaraderie the ritual has fostered in the clubhouse.
The End of an Era: Yankees’ Beard Ban Lifted
The Yankees’ beard ban was one of the most iconic—and controversial—rules in professional sports. Instituted in 1976, it allowed only mustaches and required players’ hair to remain above the collar. The policy survived decades, even after George Steinbrenner’s passing, with his son Hal maintaining the tradition. That all changed on February 21, 2025, when Hal Steinbrenner announced the team would now allow “well-groomed” beards.
This seismic shift came after the acquisition of reliever Devin Williams, who made it clear he wanted to keep his beard. The new rule was simple: no “Duck Dynasty” beards, but neatly trimmed facial hair was now acceptable. The clubhouse reaction was mixed—some players were eager to ditch their razors, while others, like shortstop Anthony Volpe, stuck to the old look due to their struggle to grow facial hair.
For Wells, the change was personal. Drafted by the Yankees in 2020, he’d always adhered to the policy, shaving during the season and letting his beard grow only in the offseason. Now, with the team’s blessing, he keeps his beard well-trimmed, even bringing a trimmer on road trips just in case.
Austin Wells May Use His Beard for More Than Luck
Austin Wells has noticed practical benefits to his new look. He’s said the beard makes his catcher’s mask fit more comfortably, reducing irritation on his chin during games. This small comfort has become a symbol of the new Yankees—one that balances tradition with modern sensibilities.
The Wells-Swanson pact isn’t just about superstition; it’s also a bonding experience. Swanson described it as a “small distraction from the daily baseball grind,” a way to connect outside the usual routines. The ritual has even drawn admiration from teammates and opponents alike. Pitcher Carlos Rodón joked about Wells’ rapid beard growth, while Max Fried praised the thickness of his mustache.
As the Yankees continue their winning ways, the beard remains. Wells knows he’ll eventually need to keep it in check—manager Aaron Boone recently reminded him to keep things neat, prompting a quick grooming session with a straight razor during a West Coast trip.
Yankees’ Winning Ways and the Beard’s Staying Power
The Yankees’ strong performance has only reinforced the superstition. With a 34-20 record, they lead the AL East by seven games and boast the second-best record in the American League. Their latest series win came against the Los Angeles Angels, with Wells’ beard still intact and the team’s momentum undiminished.
The new policy has quickly become normalized in the clubhouse. Even team captain Aaron Judge has grown some facial hair, a sight that would have been unthinkable just months ago. Manager Aaron Boone noted how quickly the presence of beards has faded into the background, saying, “It’s already faded pretty quickly, in my view. I don’t know how others perceive it, but I don’t think about it.”
What’s Next for Austin Wells and the Yankees?
Austin Wells may use his beard as a symbol of the Yankees’ new identity—one that honors tradition while embracing change. As long as the team keeps winning, expect the facial hair superstition to endure, growing alongside the Yankees’ ambitions for the 2025 season.
Fans are watching closely: Will the superstition last? Can the Yankees keep their winning streak alive? For now, Austin Wells and his beard are at the heart of one of baseball’s most intriguing new rituals.
Join the conversation: Do you think the Yankees’ facial hair superstition will become a lasting tradition? Share your thoughts and predictions for the rest of the season!