Derek Sanderson Jeter is in hot pursuit of one of the most hallowed achievements in major league baseball. It’s a magical number that only 27 men before Jeter have reached. 3000 hits. It’s a number that defines greatness and it’s an achievement that always guarantees enshrinement in Cooperstown.
At 36 years young, like an old locomotive, Jeter looked to be picking up steam heading towards the 3000 mark. Jeter had recorded hits in the 8 of the Yankees last ten games, but it seems as Jeter was chasing the legendary mark, Father Time was chasing Jeter.
After recording hit number 2994 Monday night against the Cleveland Indians, Jeter walked off the field with an apparent calf injury. And MRI has revealed a mild calf strain, that will likely put Jeter out of the Yankees line-up as the team begins inter-league play.
It was a rare sight to see Jeter walk off the field hurt. The Yankees all-time hit leader has routinely played through injuries throughout his career, but given his age and how close he is the monumental mark of 3000 hits, it’s unlikely the Yankees will take any chances with his health.
If Jeter is placed on the DL he will likely return for the Yankees homestand at the end of the month against the Rockies and or the Brewers.
Sportbooks should have their Jeter offerings ready as all eyes will be on Jeter when he returns, watching every at-bat until he reaches the 3000 hit mark. Which pitcher will go down in history with Jeter as the guy that gave up his 3000th hit? Will it be a infield single that he legs out? Will it be a homerun? How will history be made?
Bloomberg news reports that Jeter’s 3000th hit ball could be worth as much as $250K according to several auction houses. With the popularity of Derek Jeter, and the fact that he will be the only Yankee to reach the 3000 mark, that price could skyrocket. If the hit is a homer it could be worth much more.
Craig Biggio is the last man to reach 3000 hits, he did so back in 2007 in a spectacular 5-6 hitting performance.
