In a salute to Derek Jeter's last stand at Tropicana Field, the Tampa Bay Rays presented the longtime Yankees' shortstop with a trio of gifts. The most touching gift was a Don Zimmer jersey, presented to Jeter by Zimmer's widow, Soot.
In 1996, Don Zimmer joined the Yankees as a bench coach under Joe Torre, that was Jeter's first full season as a starting shortstop in MLB. Zimmer and Jeter had a close relationship that grew
The Rays also presented Jeter with a $16,000 check for his Turn2 Foundation and a pinstriped kayak.
Rays manager Joe Maddon said he's impressed with Jeter's respect for the game.
“If there is gonna be a first time unanimous choice for the Hall of Fame it should be him I think. Plus, where he did it and how he did it and continues to do it. The way he handles every moment, it's unique. Not many guys could do what he's done. “
Although, the 14-time all-star is retiring from game, the Bay Area will likely see more of the Tampa resident.
"I felt as though I moved here out of necessity,” said Jeter. “I wanted to work out at the minor league complex. I've always prided myself in working hard. I fell in love with this area a long time ago, I've been here since 1994. This is home for me and I don't plan on going anywhere."
Derek Jeter press conference about his career and final weeks in MLB ON Demand ch 999. Click under SPORTS tab