THANK YOU CAPTAIN

"NOW BATTING FOR THE NEW YORK YANKEES, THE SHORTSTOP, NUMBER 2 DEREK JETER... NUMBER 2"- Bob Sheppard

An entrance that won't happen again…

 

In his final at bat at Yankee Stadium he went out in style.  He walked off in the bottom of the ninth.  It was a perfect ending to his last ever home-stand.  In his last at bat, on the road at Fenway Park vs. the Yankees’ arch rival Boston Red Sox, Jeter hit a classic Derek Jeter hit, an infield single which he legged out and drove in an RBI. He left to a standing ovation and chants of his name by the Fenway Faithful.  Truly a classy end to a career that never lacked in class.  

Before the game the Red Sox honored Jeter with former Red Sox greats, Former Celtic Paul Peirce, Former Patriot Troy Brown, and Bruins Legend Bobby Orr.  My favorite part however was when Pete Frates, creator of the famous ALS ice bucket challenge, was honored as well.  He thanked Jeter for participating in and spreading awareness to the ice bucket challenge and ALS.  It was a cool moment especially considering Frates was a baseball player for Boston College before he was diagnosed. The Sox ended the ceremony by giving Jeter a piece of the Green Monster which read RE2PECT.  A word that along with class defined his career.  He played with class and respect.

In an age where many athletes are just about the money, and winning isn't everything. Jeter gave it all every single time he stepped on the diamond.  He was the leader of one of the most historic sports franchises and helped the Yankees win five World Series titles. He was a perfect example for young baseball players to try to emulate on the field with his effort and leadership.  At the age of 26 Jeter was a 3 time World Series champion yet he never was satisfied.  He went in to each season with the goal of winning it all again, a goal he always did his best to achieve.  Players in the MLB today grew up idolizing Jeter.  He was a great role model in an industry where most players don't want to be one.  Next season won't be the same without him, the world of Baseball just lost a phenomenal, but in 5 years the Cooperstown will gain a legend.  

Thank You Jeter, the world of baseball tips its cap 2 you... Hell of a career.