In September of 2009, as Derek Jeter chased, tied and passed the Yankee “career hit record” of Lou Gehrig, Mike Francesa on W.F.A.N. sports radio had a week long discussion on how Derek Jeter’s career is to be defined.
Francesa made it perfectly clear that great career of Jeter’s was never about the numbers and many callers and fans, including myself agreed.
This led me to examine some statistics and after further review my opinion has changed. I believe the great career of Derek Jeter will be defined by the intangibles as well as the numbers.
I have come to this conclusion after doing a statistical comparison between Derek Jeter and the great Roberto Clemente. I chose Clemente because he was a player not only a player remembered for the intangibles but also compiled some substantial statistical accomplishments.
| Player | A.B. | Runs | Hits | 2B | 3B | H.R. | R.B.I.’s | K. | S.B. | Ave. |
| Roberto Clemente | 9454 | 1416 | 3000 | 440 | 166 | 240 | 1305 | 1230 | 83 | 317 |
| Derek Jeter (as of 2009) | 8659 | 1574 | 2747 | 438 | 58 | 224 | 1068 | 1466 | 305 | 317 |
How do you think Jeter will be remembered? Please add your comments…
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