Jeter Struggling at the Plate

Mar 12, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter (2) takes batting practice before the game against the Detroit Tigers at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Well, Yankee fans, today is a day of the week that ends in the letter “Y” and that means there is Derek Jeter news to report. Word out of Tampa is Jeter is struggling at the plate. The word from this writer is “good.” Jeter needs to get the kinks out now, so there is little to worry about.

Heading into the weekend’s “Legends Series” in Panama, Jeter is batting an ugly .167 registering just 4 hits in his first 24 at bats. He has only drawn two walks but in his defense he has only struck out 20% of the time. That means he is making contact. So what seems to be the problem?

“Timing’s messed up. We’ve seen him pull some balls and that’s kind of unusual,” Joe Girardi told reporters after the Yankees 6-0 trouncing of the Orioles in a split-squad game. Jeter concluded the day 0-for-4 striking out looking in his final at bat. Is Girardi worried? “Older guys you don’t worry so much about early on in spring training.” Judging by that, it sure doesn’t sound like it.

And either should you be Yankee fans. Derek Jeter is the Yankees Captain for a reason. He is arguably the best contact hitter in Yankees history. He has had just 87 Major League at bats (including this spring) since his devastating ankle injury in the 2012 ALCS. There is no way Derek Jeter won’t have his timing down and ready to go in Houston as the Yankees make their run for 28.