While many MLB players enjoy time away from the spotlight during the offseason, Marlins shortstop Jose Reyes has been far from low-key.
Since last season, Reyes has ditched his old team, cashed some fat checks and posed nude on camera. Now he’s done the unthinkable.
Reyes had his trademark dreadlocks chopped off on the MLB Network Friday night, by a man identified only as Jordan from Jordan’s Barbershop in the Bronx. The trim was an order from Reyes’ new bosses at the Miami Marlins, who won’t allow players to have hair below their helmet line.
It was clearly a painful moment for the star shortstop, as he’s been rocking the Rasta locks for the better part of three years. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that the hairstyle has also coincided with some of the best seasons of his career.
In 2011, Reyes won the National League batting crown with a career high .337 average. He also posted career bests in slugging (.493) and on-base percentage (.877).
Although he will have to adjust to the new look, Reyes can take solace in the fact that his hair will help the less fortunate. MLB Network spokeswoman Lorraine Fisher said the haircut will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida.
As of now, it’s unclear how the loss of his dreads will impact Reyes’ play in Miami, but we do have some historical precedent.
Ricky Williams also ditched his famous dreads when he joined the Miami Dolphins in 2002. He had two great years before entering a horrible downward spiral.
Of course, Williams was battling depression and smoking enough weed to kill a large animal, so Reyes will probably be fine.
Read more MLB news on BleacherReport.com