Derek Jeter Says “Don’t Call It A Farewell Tour”

Jun 7, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; A New York Yankees fan shows her support for Derek Jeter (2) during batting practice before the game against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

When Derek Jeter announced that he would be retiring after this year’s campaign, we all expected him to get similar treatment to Mariano Rivera‘s 2013 season, when Rivera was showered with gifts and praise everywhere he went. And that’s exactly what has happened.

The only difference is, Rivera didn’t have a problem with his final season being called a farewell tour.  Jeter obviously does. When asked by a Kansas City reporter how his farewell tour has been going, the usually calm, cool and collected Jeter got noticeably upset. “I don’t like  that phrase” said Jeter when asked what he would rather call it. Jeter said “My last year, it’s not a tour, I don’t know why it bothers me so much, but we’re still trying to win games.”

Chicago White Sox’  manager Robin Ventura also expressed a little aggravation with the send off saying. “He’s not dying, he’s just retiring. It’s weird. I’m sure it’s uncomfortable for him going through all of it, but he’s a great player.”

Jeter is hitting .258 with 1 homer and 12 RBI in his “Don’t call it a farewell tour.”  But no matter what numbers he finishes up with, he will always be remembered as one of the best to ever put on a baseball Jersey.