Brian Wilson won’t join the Yankees because he won’t shave his beard
With future Hall-of-Fame closer Mariano Rivera retiring, the New York Yankees certainly have a need in the back end of their bullpen.
According to Andy McCullough of the Star-Ledger, the Yankees won’t be turning to former San Francisco Giants and Los Angeles Dodgers’ relief pitcher Brian Wilson.
Brian Cashman says you can rule out the Yankees signing Brian Wilson. His agent told team he won't shave beard. True story, Cashman says.
— Andy McCullough (@ByMcCullough) November 13, 2013
This has happened before – Randy Johnson shaved his famous beard when he joined the team. Same with outfielder Johnny Damon.
However, the beard is Wilson’s signature look. He sells t-shirts and makes commercials because of it. Shaving would likely cost him money.
And it’s not like he doesn’t have a list of suitors. The Cleveland Indians and Detroit Tigers are both considering making an offer to the 31-year old veteran out of LSU.
Last season, Wilson appeared in 18 games for the Dodgers. He allowed one run on eight hits and four walks while striking out 13 in 13.2 innings. He did not allow a run in six postseason innings.