Former Yankees: Derek Jeter doing his part to help during coronavirus pandemic

Athletes around the world have been making efforts to help their communities through the coronavirus pandemic, donating both time and money through various efforts. Count New York Yankees legend Derek Jeter among them.

Derek Jeter, now co-owner and CEO of the Miami Marlins, is doing his part on two fronts.

Jeter will be auctioning off his jersey from the 2014 All-Star Game as part of the All In Challenge, according to Brendan Kuty of NJ.com. The All In Challenge is working towards feeding anyone who struggling financially during the coronavirus pandemic. Jeter is one of many to donate memorabilia, tickets, or an experience of some kind through the program.

As Kuty notes, this was Jeter’s last All-Star appearance before retiring so the jersey has some extra significance. Jeter seemed to recognize that, too.

“As a player, you understand what an honor it is to play in an All-Star Game so that’s something that’s pretty special to me. I hope everyone out there comes up with some huge bids on all these items because the more money raised is more people that can be helped.”

Separately, Jeter is taking steps to help ensure his employees in Miami can continue to receive their paychecks while the world waits for pro sporting events to start up again. Jeter will forego his salary for the foreseeable future, reports SportsGrid’s Craig Mish.

Jeter going without a salary for an indefinite period of time likely won’t impact the man much personally. He earned enough during his playing career ($265 million or so) to become co-owner of a team, after all. He likely has other investments. His wife has her own successful career, as well, so the family is not in a situation where they’re going to be suffering. Jeter does have some rental income coming in for his Tampa property, too, technically.

It is unclear exactly how much Jeter’s decision will save the Marlins with regard to their financial bottom line. This is an organization that has been historically frugal, regardless of the ownership group, but the gesture is still impactful during a time where every bit helps prevent the loss of jobs.

Major League Baseball and the 30 individual clubs took steps early on to ensure that team non-player personnel (scouts, coaches, front office executives, etc.) would continue to be paid through April despite no games being played. The league is expected to announce steps towards extending those protections through May in the coming days, but there are also concerns about what the impact of an uncertain return to the field will have towards the future of many of these positions. Layoffs, furloughs, and salary reductions all appear to be options on the table.

A number of teams — the Braves, Phillies, Giants, White Sox, Reds, Marlins, and Red Sox — have individually promised to pay their employees through May.