Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Derek Jeter might be the most frustrated he’s ever been during his 19-year career. After sustaining an injury to his calf, the legendary shortstop has landed back on the DL for the third time this season. His first comeback ended only one game in and his latest attempt has ended just four games later.
Sunday, Jeter commented on his 2013 campaign:
“It’s been terrible. It’s been like a nightmare. The whole season has been a nightmare. I wish that wasn’t the case and we were sitting here talking about something besides another injury.”
The New York Yankees legend sounds more dejected than we’ve ever heard him. His 39-year old body just hasn’t been able to keep up with the demands of an everyday player this year and it’s fair to wonder if that will be the case going forward.
Jeter isn’t getting any younger, but he’s also an extremely competitive guy. I don’t think this latest string of injuries will cause him to retire at the end of this season, but I’m starting to lean towards next year being his last.
The legendary shortstop has a lot of pride, so it’s hard to see him hanging around and being hurt for another few years. It’s very possible that he gears up hard for one more run in 2014 as he turns 40-years old. Jeter is the type of guy that will want to go out on top, or as close to it as he can get.
Fans should expect to see the Captain back in pinstripes before too long, however they shouldn’t have real high hopes of him upon his return. Still, if he can get in the ballpark of 100%, he should be able to help the Yankees in some way.
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