Follow U.S. investment immigration and life in the U.S.: In 2013, the Major League Baseball World Series in the United States turned into a "Beard Battle." This year, baseball players are growing their beards longer, with the Boston Red Sox and the St. Louis Cardinals, who made it to the championship, having some players whose faces are almost unrecognizable due to their beards. It is generally believed that the Red Sox are more extravagant, while the Cardinals maintain a neater appearance.
According to reports, it is traditionally believed that a pitcher with a bit of a beard can enhance their intimidation factor. In 2012, the championship Giants' closer, Romo, became a role model for fans with his beard, and in 2013, the trend of growing beards became even more popular, with even position players sporting longer beards.
Generally speaking, Cardinals players tend to keep their beards neatly trimmed, with Wayne Wright's beard being just the right length to win a styling award, while Red Sox players let their beards grow freely, with Ortiz being an exception. Napoli shaves his head and uses all his shampoo and conditioner on his beard.
Reports indicate that Cardinals pitcher Motte has been growing his beard for five years. Even after missing an entire season due to injury, he continues to grow it, stating that he would not shave even if he won the World Series, as his wife and daughter might not recognize him. The Japanese closer for the Red Sox generally adheres to the rule of no facial hair, while reliever Tazawa has a barely noticeable stubble.
Of course, there are also team owners who find beards dirty and unkempt, issuing orders to prohibit players from growing beards, with the New York Yankees and the Reds being prime examples. Yankees owner Steinbrenner even once prevented Martin from starting due to his excessively long beard.