Well, it's official - the Derek Jeter Era has come to an end in Yankeeland. With the arrival of superstar Alex Rodriguez - the third best player ever to wear Yankee pinstripes - the scrappy never-say-die NL-style Torre-and-Jeter show has finally come to its end. Eventually, A-Rod will replace Jeter at shortstop, where he is a far better defensive player. Moreover, he instantly replaces Jeter as the most marketed Yankee.
Look, I'm a Mets fan. Have been since 1969. Won't change allegiance - ever. And that's despite the Wilpons' utter mismanagement of one of baseball's top five franchises. While I have not rooted for the 1996-era Yankees, I have admired them and the core they built the team upon. At the center of that core is the two-sided beating heart of Torre-Jeter. As we know, Torre will take his wisdom elsewhere next year. And now Jeter has to play beside a third-baseman who is a better shortstop than he is - and is just behind Ruth and Gehrig as the best position players ever to suit up on the Bronx.
And, of course, George Steinbrenner wants them both gone. And that's because George believes that credit for the Yankees great late-90s run should be his and his alone. In his mind, Torre and Jeter are supporting actors to his shining lead. That this is nonsense doesn't matter; it's George's show and he runs it the way he wants to.
So Yankee fans, take long look at shortstop Derek Jeter on Opening Day. Sure, he'll play short for a while - until he gets hurt or slumps or Torre takes an early leave of absence. Hell, he might even last out the season at short. But in 2005, with Torre gone, Jeter will either be at second base - or he'll follow Andy Pettitte out the door.
UPDATE: The Yanks management is saying all the right things about Jeter, his captaincy, and shortstop. But nothing is permanent in Yankeeland - a la "Yogi is my manager." Meanwhile, I've started something of the controversy about all-time great Yankees.
