Breaking news: The New York Yankees newly signed two-time All-Star reliever and former closer for the Milwaukee Brewers, ignites an online debate with his fresh perspective on the Yankees.

The Milwaukee Brewers traded two-time All-Star reliever Devin Williams to the New York Yankees earlier this winter in exchange for infield prospect Caleb Durbin and left-handed starting pitcher Nestor Cortes. Since Williams is approaching his final season before becoming a free agent and will be far too costly for Milwaukee to re-sign, the deal was obviously anticipated. They made sure they received some players in exchange for him rather than nothing at all by trading him early, like they did with Josh Hader.

But even after the deal was consummated, everyone, especially Brewers and Yankees fans, were all wondering the same thing: would New York compel Williams to cut his beard, which he has had ever since he came into the Majors?

Devin Williams, a former closer for the Milwaukee Brewers, was required to adhere to the New York Yankees’ facial hair rule.

The Yankees’ players’ long hair and beards during the playing of the National Anthem angered George Steinbrenner when he purchased the team in 1973. As a veteran of the Air Force who had to follow a rigorous appearance code as a child, he expected his teammates to do the same.

Since then, the Yankees have prohibited beards and long hair. “All players, coaches, and male executives are prohibited from displaying any facial hair other than mustaches (unless for religious reasons), and scalp hair may not be grown below the collar,” according to Sporting News. “Mutton chops” and long sideburns are not expressly prohibited.

Naturally, this regulation required 2020 NL Rookie of the Year Williams to cut his beard prior to reporting for Spring Training. which he carried out.

Devin Williams, a former pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers, sparks an online debate about fresh shaving.

Fans expressed strong opinions about the Yankees’ stance, both in favor of and against it, as has been the case for years:

Notably, the Yankees’ facial hair ban did not sit well with Juan Soto, the largest free agent available this past offseason, who played for them the previous season.

The New York Mets signed him.