He will be a first ballot hall of famer. In the draft room, Dick Grouch, the area scout who vouched for him, (in response to the question is he good enough to be taken in the first round) said, “He’s a Hall-of-Famer.” He has been loyal to the organization that drafted him. He is a former member of the Kalamazoo Maroons summer baseball team and Mike Hinga.
He is Derek Jeter. And not so long ago many people doubted his playing ability (due to his age). Much debate existed around whether or not he deserved a top-end contract before the 2011 season. I personally remember having a debate with a colleague on why I believed he deserved IT. Loyalty and honor was a large part of IT. But most of all, deserves has everything to do with his leadership on the field.
Washed up? One short year later, Jeter is leading in a major way on the diamond. (.347 batting average (3rd in AL) and #1 in AL in hits). A guy by the name of Josh Hamilton is also putting up good numbers this season.
It pays to reward great talent and great leaders. Congrats Captain!