Derek Jeter and A-Rod, from 2004 to 2014, competed to be the greater face of the Yankees. While A-Rod qualified as an esteemed power hitter, Jeter was relatively defensive. However, no one could replace Jeter. He was bigger than home runs, slogging, and numbers. He was always about leadership and inspiration.

A-Rod arrived at the Yankees in 2004. His arrival marked the beginning of the two friends-turned-foe finally becoming teammates. While A-Rod entered as a shortstop, he switched to the third baseman, as Jeter had already occupied the shortstop position.

What did A-Rod say to applaud Derek Jeter?

Despite multiple rumors, at least in recent years, A-Rod and Jeter have shared a very civil bond. Along with making multiple media appearances together, they have openly spoken about the mutual respect that has always existed between the two. Markedly, Jeter’s official induction ceremony was conducted this time last year. One year down the line, Jeter makes the headlines again as the Yanks celebrate his great career at Yankee Stadium.

A-Rod applauded Jeter’s MLB career by reposting Jeter’s speech and saying, “Congrats Captain.”

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Not surprisingly, Jeter’s speech, once again, hit the right chord. In an excerpt from his speech, he said, “I was born in New Jersey. I grew up in Kalamazoo. I live now down in Miami. But right here, in front of you, with you, is where I really feel like I’m at home.”

Jeter and A-Rod’s relationship

Jeter and A-Rod shared a very topsy-turvy relationship. They literally transformed from best friends to teammates to rivals and, ultimately, civil acquaintances. During the start of their career, the duo’s name made the “finest group of shortstops since World War II.” They first met while playing college baseball and shared a tight bond. However, things took a turn for the worse as their careers progressed. They retired within a year’s difference. While Jeter was the ideal player and respected captain, A-Rod’s PED scandal worsened his reputation and, in effect, his fandom.

In 2018, A-Rod admitted to having a high-low relationship with Jeter. He said, “Derek and I are friends. I’ve known Derek since we were 15 years old. Like all relationships, there’s ups, there’s downs, there’s ups, but where it sits today is where it’s always sat — with respect.”

Would the Yankees be more successful under Jeter if A-Rod and he resolved their disputes earlier? What do you think? Let us to your thoughts in the comments below.

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