Derek Jeter



Derek Jeter was born in Pequannok, New Jersey in June of 1974. His family moved to Michigan where he played both basketball and baseball for his high school in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He was chosen by the New York Yankees in the 1996 draft pick. Jeter was the sixth pick overall in the first round.

He quickly began to establish himself as one of the top players in his league. He was awarded Rookie of the Year in his first season with the Yankees. He continued to show improvement each year at the plate and delivered outstanding fielding in his shortstop position. He was the first rookie in 34 years to start with the Yankee as shortstop during the first season. Derek Jeter has become one of modern baseball's most recognized names.

Jeter was instrumental in the Yankees World Series sweep of the Atlanta Braves in 1995. In 1996, Jeter scored five runs in five hits. Though the Yankees didnt make it to the World Series in 1997, Jeter had impressive batting statistics that year, with a .291 batting average, 10 home runs, and 70 RBIs. By the end of his 1998 season, he had earned a .324 batting average, with 19 home runs, 84 RBIs, and 203 total hits. He was the leagues high scorer with 127 runs.

In 1999, Jeter became the highest paid player among those with just a few years of service. When Jeter and his agent could not reach an agreement with the Yankees about his new contract, they went to arbitration with the Yankees owner, George Steinbrenner. Jeter won this arbitration and earned a one-year $5 million dollar contract.

Jeter kept his drive and focus, and that paid off for him again in 1999. He ended that season breaking most of his personal records. His impressive statistics included 24 home runs, 134 runs scored, 9 triples, 102 RBIs and an incredible .349 batting average. He received the All-Star award for a second time that season.

In game four of the 2000 World Series match between the New York Yankees and the New York Mets, Jeter kicked off the game with a home run on the very first pitch. In his second at-bat, Jeter hit a triple and scored, giving the Yankees a comfortable three-run lead. The Yankees went on to win the 2000 World Series in five games.

While Jeter retains his superstar status, he also makes time to contribute to his community. Together with his father, Jeter created the Turn 2 Foundation. This organization is dedicated to working with high-risk kids to encourage academic achievement, healthy choices, and saying no to drug use. Turn 2 is operated in Jeters hometown of Kalamzoo, and in New York City, where Jeter currently lives.

Derek Jeter was the first player in history to be named both the World Series MVP and All-Star Game MVP in the same season; he received these awards in 2000. He has been is a seven time American League All-Star.