In my business, shaving was obligatory, and gold chains, had they ever been worn, would have been scorned. I think the beards and gold chains are entirely about getting people's attention, which is what most if not all adolescents do. And let's not forget all the hand waving, etc whenever anyone gets a hit. Look at me, look at me, look at me. I accept all that because it's now part of the game, but I don't think any of it makes the game better.
I do, however, have the sneaking suspicion that MLB likes the gyrations, the beards, the jewelry, etc because they hope it will increase attendance and/or viewership.
Championships since purchase by John Henry group: Red Sox 4 Yankees 1
The Red Sox are 8-1 in their last 9 postseason games against the Yankees.