Derek Jeter all class, goes out on his terms
TAMPA, Fla. — Derek Jeter could have walked away from the New York Yankees whenever he wanted.
It was his choice.
If he wanted to switch positions and play third base next season, it was his prerogative.
JETER: Announces his retirement after 2014 season
If he wanted to be a designated hitter for a few years, it was his choice.
If he wanted to look like a stumbling Willie Mays at the end of his career, a hobbled Mickey Mantle or an old Satchel Paige, Jeter earned the privilege to inform the Yankees when he was retiring.
Yet Jeter’s control of his career has mirrored his command of the middle of a baseball diamond.
And so Wednesday, he decided he will walk away before enduring any of those potential indignities.
JETER II: His Facebook announcement
He announced on his Facebook page — and who knew he had one? — that he will walk away from baseball after the 2014 season.
“Really, it was months ago when I realized that this season would likely be my last,” Jeter wrote. “As I came to this conclusion and shared it with my friends and family, they all told me to hold off saying anything until I was absolutely 100% sure.
“And the thing is, I could not be more sure.”
That was it.
JETER III: Greatest moments of his career
There was no news conference at Yankee Stadium. No tearful goodbyes with Oprah. No news media leaks.
He did it his way. On his terms.
He didn’t even bother to inform the Yankees until Wednesday morning, only calling owner Hal Steinbrenner.
Jeter, 39, a true Yankee to the end, didn’t bother asking for a front-office or community services job when he retires.
He’s not seeing whether he could leverage his stature on the free agent market.
He’s not even bothering to promote his brand name.
Simply, in a style exemplifying the class of the man, he is politely telling the Yankees that it’s time he says goodbye.
SD Yankee Report 