Derek Jeter: New York Yankees Renaissance Man Continues to Build on Legacy
May 4, 2012 · James Morisette · Jump to comments
Article Source: Bleacher Report - New York Yankees
In the wake of Mariano Rivera’s potentially career ending knee-injury, good news nonetheless exists.
The renaissance man that is Derek Jeter continues to show no signs he intends on slowing down.
Last night, Jeter went 4-for-5 with a double during the Yankees‘ 4-3 loss versus the Kansas City Royals.
Through 25 games, this 37-year-old leadoff man is hitting .404, which is second to a scorching-hot Matt Kemp. Jeter also has four home runs and 13 RBI. He leads the league with 44 hits. Jeter’s 1.028 OPS is eighth best in the big leagues. During the past 10 games, Jeter is hitting .439 with 18 hits in 41 at-bats.
Per recent polling, 76 percent of readers now believe Jeter will eventually pass Hank Aaron for third on the all-time hits list.
But the big question revolves around if Jeter can continue on this torrid pace.
Some argue age in the face of a brutal summer schedule will eventually lead Jeter to a drought. Some say there is no way Jeter can continue to hit over .570 against left-handed pitching.
Yet others believe Jeter is primed to have a career year ballplayers can only dream about. Per ESPN statistics, Jeter is projected to have 285 hits with 26 home runs, 52 doubles and 84 RBI. While it is logical that Jeter will slow a bit through summer, Yankee fans cannot help be excited by his performance.
Should Jeter continue on his outstanding pace, he has a chance not only to continue to build on his great legacy, but he also has the opportunity to become the second oldest player (behind Ted Williams) to win the batting title.
Being mentioned in the same breath as Ted Williams.
That is a fine achievement in its own right.
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