By Collin Mcdonald

The Yankees have been known for being baseball’s most coveted franchise for nearly one hundred years. With over 27 titles under their belt, this baseball dynasty has been able to achieve an un-presented amount of greatness. For decades this powerhouse club house has been a home for many of baseball’s biggest stars; Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, and Mariano Rivera just to name a few. However, if you were to ask any person with common baseball knowledge who the greatest and most loyal Yankee was in the last 20 years, I would guarantee that they would tell you the name of the team’s number 2 short stop— Derek Jeter.

In 1995, Jeter made his first MLB debut.  From his inaugural season to his last, he was achieved many accolades. He is the Yankees’ all-time career leader in hits (3,465), doubles (544), games played (2,747), stolen (358), times on base (4,716), plate appearances (12,602) and at bats (11,195). Derek also won the AL Rookie of the year, has been voted an All-Star 14 times, won 5 golden glove awards, 5 silver slugger awards, and most importantly, is a 5 time World Series Champion. Many consider Jeter to be one of the catalysts that rejuvenated the Yankee’s success in the MLB. What astounds me most about Derek is the fact that his level of play reached new heights in the post season. His competitive nature and love for the game was a pleasure for not only his fans to watch, but for his teammates to be a part of.

Jeter’s career was free of any allegations that may have tarnished his reputation and many people respect him for this clean record that he constantly upheld. It is imperative that professional athletes are conscious of their public notoriety and hence make it a priority to be a positive role model for our youth. Many athletes, singers, actors etc. do not accept the indisputable fact that millions of kids look up them and are inclined to imitate the behavior of their idols. Derek Jeter is one of the few exceptions that I feel has taken this responsibility to heart. Without a prolific player and positive role model like him, the MLB will be losing one of their home run quality heroes!

References:

“Derek Jeter Statistics and History | Baseball-Reference.com.” Baseball-Reference.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 06 Mar. 2015.