Happy Birthday El Capitan, who turns 42 today! Derek Sanderson Jeter was born on June 26, 1974, in Pequannock, New Jersey. He moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan, at age 4 so his father could pursue a Ph.D. in psychology from Western Michigan University. Watching the Yankees play, specifically Dave Winfield, is what inspired him to pursue a career in baseball.
Being so lanky made Jeter perfect for basketball at Kalamazoo Central High School, but he was determined to become a Major League Baseball player. He batted over .500 in his final two years of high school, striking out just once as a senior. He won several national sports awards, including being named the American High School Coaches Association’s 1992 High School Player of the Year, the Gatorade High School Athlete of the Year and USA Today’s High School Player of the Year.
The Yankees got their hands on the skinny kid from Kalamazoo in the 1992 Draft and never let go. Through his 20 years in pinstripes he was: AL Rookie of the Year, five time Gold Glove winner, five time Silver Slugger, 14 time All Star, five time World Series champ, two time AL Hank Aaron Award recipient, Roberto Clemente Award recipient and most importantly he was our captain.
The Bronx Faithful says happy birthday Cap. We miss you everyday!
