The most traditional franchise in sports history, the New York Yankees, have been rumored to losing interest in Brian Wilson because the closer would not shave his beard. That seems fair, but the Yankees, who lack bullpen depth and a legitimate closer, prefer to stick to tradition than add a useful pitcher to their pen.
It's called "The Yankee Way." Players in the past have had to clean up their acts and their faces in order to be a part of the Yankees' organization. Immediately, Johnny Damon comes to mind as he had to completely clean up his Jesus Christ act. That meant no long hair and no facial hair. It is that simple. The Yankees are an example and they will not stand for any foolishness. Apparently, facial hair is too barbaric and unprofessional.
Wilson's beard is clearly out of control. That does not mean his case is not understandable. His beard is successful, it owns two World Series rings and has landed the former N.L. top closer a few gigs on the side of baseball. His beard was everywhere on television even during the offseason.
However, the Yankees must realize, if they had any real interest in Wilson, his quirkiness goes beyond just his beard. There is more to Wilson than just his beard and his character in general would not seem to fit the Yankee Way, except for the fact that he has won championships.
In 2013, Wilson returned to baseball after making only two appearances in 2012 due to elbow issues. After Tommy John Surgery, Wilson returned just as effective. He made 18 appearances with the Los Angeles Dodgers, going 2-1 with a 0.66 ERA, pitching 13.2 innings of one-run baseball with 13 strikeouts and four balls. Those numbers are solid. With no Mariano Rivera, the Yankees could use a closer. David Robertson is the best option they have, but Hal Steinbrenner will not say who he will have taking the ball in the ninth inning. From 2008-2011, Wilson saved 163 games for the San Francisco Giants.
He might be good, but the beard would have to go. That is a battle the Yankees will surely lose, especially in November when men all over the world let their beards and mustaches grow, otherwise known as Movember.