Gregorius May Be A Knight, But He’s No Captain

It’s only fitting that a “Sir” take over for a Captain

Newly-acquired Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorius’ nickname—Sir—is no made up sobriquet—he earned it. As a member of the 2011 national Netherlands team that won the IBAF Baseball World Cup, Gregorius received a reward that will stick with him forever—nobleness. 

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Instead of receiving money for the victory in 2011, the team was knighted in Curacao.

Gregorius’ twitter name is Sir Didi Gregorius, and he even mentioned that some people still call him that as a joke. Nicknames thrive in the New York sports scene, so it’s only a matter of time until this one catches on.

As a developing shortstop, the number one thing on everyone’s mind is whether or not he’ll be able to fill Derek Jeter’s shoes. It’s not a matter of being Jeter; it’s more about performing. After missing the post season two years straight, the Yankees hope Gregorius can play a productive offensive and defensive roll for the club. In 80 games last season for the Arizona Diamondbacks, he batted .226 and had a .290 OBP.

In 1996, Jeter’s first year, he replaced Tony Fernandez—who only played on year with the team—at shortstop. Jeter was young, fast and ready. Obviously up for the challenge, Jeter embraced the Yankees’ fan and organization. 20 years later, well, you know the rest.

When Gregorius takes the field for the first time as a Yankee, he’ll have to remember that a Sir, is nothing like a Captain.