Maybe the Boston Red Sox let the appearance of their players ressemble a brillo pad with eyes, or a barbershop floor with a chin.
Johnny Damon, welcome to the Bronx.
You're a Yankee now, and you did what was required of you- you cut that hair, shaved that beard, faced the media, and for all intents and purposes, echoed Joe DiMaggio's catchphrase, "I thank the good lord for making me a Yankee."
Those who are not Yankee fans do not agree with the team policy of clean cut and clean shaven. Some call it a Steinbrenner policy. But it's older than that- much older. Name one Yankee great who had a beard. Can't do it, can you?
What those outside the Yankee universe will never understand is that the Yankees are not just the Manchester United or Montreal Canadiens of baseball. The entire franchise takes the game, and business, of baseball incredibly seriously. Gravely seriously. The employees of the organization are expected to do nothing less than represent the Yankees with class, dignity, and yes, a dashing appearance.
By no means is this the only way to run a successful baseball team. Then again, who's to say? Maybe if Rick Sutcliffe had to shave in 1984, the Cubs would have been champs. Maybe if John Smoltz trimmed a little facial hair, his team would do better in the post season. Sound ridiculous? Maybe so. Tell yourself that after you count to 26 (titles) then 39 (pennants) then 43 (first place finishes).
Good left handed pitching helps too!
posted by The leftist southpaw @ 10:04 PM
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