One of the things that most characterize the New York Yankees and who distinguish it from the others MLB Franchises, your facial hair policy is that does not allow its players to wear beards, in addition to a hairstyle that does not exceed the height of the neck. The policy was imposed in 1973 by “The Boss” George Steinbrenner and it’s been in effect ever since, but is it legal?
The Yankees’ policy only allows mustaches and beards for religious reasons, while Steinbrenner wants the team to take a “military and business” direction. While this policy has been in effect for nearly 50 years, it violates New York State law, especially S4037.
This law states that the employer must allow his employees to bring their facial hair or hair as they wish, as long as it does not interfere with the performance of their job, with the employer specifically stating the reason why facial hair does not allow him to do his job .
When the Yankees signed Gerrit Cole in late 2019, there was some controversy as the pitcher was always characterized by a thick beard and fairly long hair, and there was some doubt that he would accept a new look to sign in New York. As just one S4037 infringement lawsuit against the team was enough to give it the look he wanted.
Since facial hair doesn’t interfere with their players’ performance at all, it seems like a matter of time before a Yankees player really wants to file a lawsuit against the team and get them to respect the law they haven’t followed since 1973.