New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter (1974–) was born in Pequannock, New Jersey. His passion and talent for baseball began at a young age. In 1992, after USA Today named him “High School Player of the Year,” he joined the Yankees.

In 2000, Jeter was Most Valuable Player in both the World Series and the All-Star Game. “Every year is a different story,” he said, taking joy in his team’s wins.

“The tougher the situation, the more fire he gets in his eyes,” then-manager Joe Torre said of the flawless fielder. “You don’t teach that. You’re born with that.”

A clubhouse presence who made teammates feel good, Jeter drew cheers everywhere he played. In 2009, he passed Lou Gehrig to become the Yankees’ all-time hits leader.

Humble, polite, and talented, he seemed to improve with each year and often said all he ever wanted was to be a Yankee. “To have the chance to play at Yankee Stadium and be on their team, I must be one of the lucky ones,” Jeter said. “God, I hope I wear this jersey forever.”

Today, Jeter continues to inspire new generations through his Turn 2 Foundation, encouraging youth to live with integrity and purpose. His legacy reminds us to play the game and live each day to win with heart.