May 29, 1995. That was when Derek Jeter was first called up to the New York Yankees. He managed to scratch up 12 hits in 48 at-bats before going back to the minors.

However, after 1995 the rest is history.

On Saturday Jeter became the 28th player in Major League history- and the first Yankee- to amass 3000 hits in a career. Furthermore, he did it in most dramatic fashion launching said 3000th hit in the left field stands for a home run.

As mind blowing as the fact that no other Yankee has achieved that feat is the fact that in the 16 seasons Jeter has played in the majors he has become the personification of class.

Sure he's dated his share of models and celebrities, but when was the last time you heard about Jeter in the tabloids? That's right, you haven't.

And as saturated as information is these days you know that if a guy has as clean a reputation as Jeter does, it's earned. There is no way in today's technological age that any shenanigans could have been kept under wraps.

No sir, Mr. Jeter has played the game better than most. There will always be someone who can argue that this shortstop fielded better or this player did that better. His character, however, is unmatched. Add to the equation the fact he's played all that time in New York and what you have is an unfortunately remarkable story about a guy who maybe- just maybe- really is all about playing the game.

Of all the historic figures that have worn pinstripes, few have had the steely leadership by example that Jeter has provided. He has to be remembered along the likes of Gehrig and DiMaggio in that regard. Nice company, to be sure.

And as "under the radar" as Jeter may be, there he was on Saturday achieving a milestone no one in the storied history of the franchise had reached, with a home run, while going 5-for-5, and driving in the winning run. In fact, the manner in which Jeter achieved immortality is in direct opposition with the way he's carried himself throughout his career.

And in this day of DUI's and athletes shooting themselves and sexual assaults, to have someone- albeit a bona fide star- that sets the example without constantly blowing trumpets to let you know he's setting it is not only refreshing, it's necessary.

Haters will say he's in decline and maybe should think about stepping aside. And maybe they have a point. Jeter is that rare form of athlete these days who has walked the walk and earned the right to play as long as he wants without hassle, so I will ask you all to please just keep it down.

The rest of us want to watch the classiest act in sports for just a bit longer.



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