The New York Yankees are among the country’s oldest major sports franchises, steeped in history and tradition.
But one of their contemporary legends was the reason for a major change to a beloved ritual, according to a new report.
The Yankees canceled their “Old Timers Game” last year, ending a tradition that brought together beloved former players for a friendly competition on the field, which was cherished by fans. NJ Advance Media’s Bob Klapisch has revealed that a decision from long-time shortstop Derek Jeter was the reason for that cancellation.
“Ever since canceling the Old Timers Game last year, the Yankees have been looking for a way to revive this beloved mid-summer ritual,” per Klapisch. “It’s not as easy as it sounds, as insiders say it (was) Derek Jeter, of all people, who nixed the event.”
Klapisch added that Jeter indirectly forced the cancellation, as he refused to attend if the Yankees insisted on putting him back at shortstop for fear of how he’d appear at the position after passing his prime.
“He didn’t want to be pressured into putting on a uniform, taking a few swings and otherwise letting the world see he’s not 25 anymore,” Klapisch wrote. “The Yankees, backed into a corner, surrendered.”
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Instead, the Yankees hosted a ceremony and question-and-answer session in place of the game, which was poorly received by fans. This year, the franchise is planning a softball game as a replacement.
Klapisch expects Jeter to participate, though it will mark a significant change to the tradition of the Old Timers Game.
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