When Derek Jeter announced that he was retiring from baseball during spring training camp. I was going through mixed emotions. On one hand, there is the guy who despises the Yankees doesn't want anything to do with them (except collect signed memorabilia). The other part of me is a baseball traditionalist who respects the game and it's players. Derek Jeter fits that mold. Plays the game all out like George Brett. He started his own charity called turn two and the guy never makes the headlines for other reasons other than his sport that he loves. He's not a vocal leader on the field, but his action speaks louder than words. As I enter the ballpark, I realize that I won't seem him play here in Kansas City ever again. Seeing Jeter for last time is like seeing Brett, Ripken or Tony Gwynn retiring from the same team in my generation. In previous generations it would be like seeing Stan Musial, Mickey Mantle or the great Ted Williams. So, if he comes to your city this summer expect big crowds, but also just enjoy this man's talents. Players like this don't come around that often.
Signed
Baseball fan Tim Crippen
