YANKEE STORY: DEREK JETER

by: Victor Suarez

Derek Sanderson Jeter was born on June 26, 1974, in Pequannock Township, New Jersey. He grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where he starred on the basketball and baseball teams for Kalamazoo Central High School. He has a sister named Sharlee.
Jeter was drafted by the New York Yankees in the first round of the 1992 Major League Baseball draft. He made his major league debut on May 29, 1995, after a series of injuries rushed his anticipated debut. He bounced between Triple-A and the majors for the rest of the year, then earned the job as the Yankees starting shortstop in 1996.

Jeter quickly became one of the most popular players in baseball. He was a 14-time All-Star and a five-time World Series champion. He was also a two-time American League Most Valuable Player.

Jeter retired from baseball after the 2014 season. He is now the owner of the Miami Marlins.

Jeter is considered one of the greatest shortstops in baseball history. He was known for his clutch hitting, his fielding ability, and his leadership on the field. He was also a popular figure off the field, known for his down-to-earth personality and his charitable work.

Jeter was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility in 2020. He received 396 of 397 possible votes (99.75%), the second-highest percentage in MLB history (behind only teammate Mariano Rivera) and the highest by a position player.

Jeter is a true icon of the game of baseball. He is a role model for young players and a beloved figure by fans of all ages.