New York Yankees captain Derek Jeter is saying goodbye after the 2014 season.
The future Hall of Fame shortstop announced via his Facebook page that he will retire after the upcoming season, walking away after what will be his 20th major-league season. His résumé includes five World Series titles, 13 All-Star team appearances, five Silver Sluggers and five Gold Glove awards. He spent his entire career in Yankees pinstripes.
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"I want to start by saying thank you," Jeter began in announcing his decision on Facebook. "I know they say that when you dream you eventually wake up. Well, for some reason, I've never had to wake up. Not just because of my time as a New York Yankee but also because I'm living my dream every single day."
Jeter said he realized "months ago" that 2014 would be it. His season-long farewell tour will likely be similar to legendary closer Mariano Rivera, who announced his retirement at this time last spring.
"In the 21-plus years in which I have served as Commissioner, Major League Baseball has had no finer ambassador than Derek Jeter," MLB Commissioner Bud Selig said in a statement. "Since his championship rookie season of 1996, Derek has represented all the best of the National Pastime on and off the field. He is one of the most accomplished and memorable players of his — or any — era."
Jeter, the sixth overall pick in the 1992 draft by the Yankees, played 15 games during the 1995 season. His first full season in 1996 resulted in a Yankees World Series Championship and in him being named Rookie of the Year. Injuries limited him to just 17 games last year, and a career-low .190 batting average.
In 2,602 games, the 39-year-old has 3,316 hits and 256 home runs. He ranks first in team history in games played, at-bats, hits and stolen bases.
Not just Yankees fans, but baseball fans across the country, will be sad to see him go.
One non-Yankees fan commented on the Facebook post: "Die hard Boston Red Sox fan here, you are a class act and always a fantastic player. Stay healthy and have a great year except when you play the Red Sox."
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