Derek Jeter provides zero risk to any club lucky enough to have his services.
In light of Jeter’s down year, fans, experts, statisticians, managers and GMs have all thrown in their two cents.
The conensus on Jeter is that, despite all the hoopla surrounding his free agency and winning his fifth Gold Glove, his career is nearing an end. However, for someone apparently entering the “receding” stage of his career, rumor has it that a three-year deal worth between $45-60 million is on the table.
It has also been said that Jeter could contend for the all-time hits record held by Pete Rose. After watching Jeter’s 2010 season and witnessing a severe drop-off in nearly every significant offensive category, I find it very unrealistic that Jeter can play another seven seasons (needs to average 190 hits) to match 4,256.
Jeter would be approximately 44 years old, and should not be playing shortstop at that point either.
Would Jeter be a DH? I would again say no. Jeter has never been a power hitter. He’s more or less a spray/gap hitter. Using the “smart baserunner” term, Jeter would not be legging out triples, or doubles for that matter.
If he does play into his 40s, you can be certain as to what type of player you would be getting. Any manager would know that his skills would have deteriorated at the plate and in the field, yet he contributes in numerous areas that do not generate a lot of attention.
Whatever team is graced by Jeter’s presence would have the ultimate bench player, a wise sage if you will, that could assist the younger players, acting as a coach or mentor.
The 2010 season, as talked about earlier, was a down year for Jeter in everybody’s estimation. His batting average was 44 points below his career average of .314, his OBP saw a 45-point decrease from the norm, and his slugging percentage plummeted nearly 100 points (82, to be exact).
Jeter is considered low risk, then and now. He will give 100 percent, will always be prepared and will produce approximately 10-15 home runs and 68-75 RBI.
Instead of worrying about what could happen, look at Jeter as a team’s investment. Look at Jeter like a GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate).
A GIC is usually bought near retirement because it provides a low-risk fixed rate of return. Literally, there is no risk in purchasing a GIC. The principal is only at risk if the lender, the bank, defaults.
In this case, Derek Jeter has been issued by the New York Yankees. He provides a stable return despite numbers below what you would normally expect, but the team does not have any risk suiting him up.
The only risk the fans face is if the Yankees default. I assume you could say the Yankees would default on their Jeter investment by not providing a support staff around their eternal Captain.
With little support, his flaws are exposed and shine slowly wears off.
Jeter does have a chance to challenge Rose, only if he is situated in an ideal situation where he cannot fail. The Yankees have to play the hand they are now dealt.
Jeter can be lowered in the batting order or they can attempt to use him as the focal point of the offense. His club can also continue to allow him to take heat for his deteriorating play at shortstop.
Unless presented and executed property, this investment will indeed fall short of its expected return.
Devon is the founder of The GM’s Perspective
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