Derek Jeter Is Done For The Year

Derek Jeter is done for the season. In his typical determined fashion, he has made every effort to get on the field and stay there. But the Yankees have placed him on the disabled list once again, and this time he reportedly will not return this year.“He has done enough for us,” general manager Brian Cashman said. “We’re not going to jeopardize 2014 when he’s not in a position to really help.”

The Yankees conferred with Dr. Robert Anderson, who performed Jeter’s ankle surgery in October, before making the decision. Of course, they did not opt to risk further injury to him.  Jeter was disappointed, but as always he put the team first.

“If you can’t play the way you’re capable of playing, then you’re not really helping out,” Jeter said…”The entire year has been pretty much a nightmare for me physically,”I guess this is kind of fitting that it ends like this.”

But he doesn’t plan to let anything stop him from being ready and able to get back in time for spring training. Manager Joe Girardi is confident in his ability to do just that.

“I will never doubt Derek because of who he is,” Girardi said. “If he believes he can get back, that’s the bottom line.”

So the Yankees make their stretch run with Eduardo Nunez and newly acquired Brendan Ryan at shortstop. They got Ryan from the Seattle Mariners for a player to be named on Tuesday. Although Ryan is hitting only .192 on the year, he is highly regarded defensively. Despite his 11 errors on the season, he has shown the knack for making spectacular plays.

Of course, Ryan can not be included on the Yankees postseason roster. Players must be on the team by August 31 in order to be eligible. But he provides a solid alternative should Nunez struggle defensively at any time. He has also played second base, third base, and in the outfield during his career.

Certainly, the Yankees will follow The Captains lead. He did every.thing he could to get back on the field. Now they need to do everything they can to make the postseason.