Blake Perkins, the Milwaukee Brewers outfielder, is set to miss the first month of the season due to a fractured right shin sustained during batting practice. Brewers manager Pat Murphy indicated that Perkins will require a healing period of three to four weeks, followed by a ramp-up phase of four to six weeks, pushing his return to May. Perkins had a notable season last year, hitting .240 with six home runs and being a finalist for the NL Gold Glove in center field. His absence will be felt significantly, as Murphy noted that Perkins is a beloved teammate and an essential contributor both offensively and defensively.

Moreover, right-handed pitcher JB Bukauskas is also facing a potential setback with what appears to be a serious lat injury, and he is contemplating surgery. Bukauskas had an impressive 1.50 ERA in limited appearances last season but struggled with injuries.

Blake Perkins, a key outfielder for the Milwaukee Brewers, is set to miss significant time after fracturing his right shin during batting practice. Team manager Pat Murphy announced that Perkins is expected to be sidelined for about a month, pushing his potential return to May. Last season, he contributed notably with a .240 batting average, 43 RBIs, and 23 stolen bases, solidifying his role as both a beloved player and a defensive asset.

In addition to Perkins' injury, Milwaukee faces more challenges as pitcher J.B. Bukauskas is also dealing with a serious lat injury, raising concerns about surgery. Bukauskas had shown promise last year with a remarkable 1.50 ERA in limited appearances, but his recurring lat issues could further complicate the Brewers' pitching depth this season.

The New York Yankees are finally relaxing their strict grooming policies that had been in place for nearly five decades. Starting in 2025, players will be allowed to sport well-groomed beards, departing from the long-standing ban on facial hair other than mustaches. Owner Hal Steinbrenner stated that after discussions with former and current players, it was time to amend the policy to reflect a more modern approach.

While the decision has been widely welcomed, the Yankees did not address the ongoing restriction against hairstyles that extend past the collar, leading to questions about the inclusivity of their updated rules. Players, fans, and media had increasingly criticized the team for what some viewed as outdated and racially insensitive regulations, particularly in relation to allowing hairstyles such as dreadlocks. The change comes during a time when the Yankees are facing scrutiny due to a prolonged championship drought, prompting the organization to reassess its policies.

The New York Yankees, known for their strict grooming policies, have officially lifted their ban on beards. Owner Hal Steinbrenner announced the change, allowing players to maintain 'well-groomed beards' moving forward. Historically, the Yankees enforced a 'Neatness Counts' policy since the 1970s that prohibited facial hair, with only mustaches permitted. This decision comes after discussions with former and current players, indicating an evolution in the team's culture and approach to player preferences.

Among the first to benefit from this new policy is Devin Williams, the recently signed closer who sported a beard while with the Milwaukee Brewers. The change has been widely received, with some players expressing relief at the more relaxed grooming standards, which previously led to instances where players had to trim or shave upon joining the team. This shift not only modernizes the franchise's image but also reflects a broader acceptance of player individuality within professional sports.