Regardless, he's still the most popular, most successful, and dare I say, most important NY sports figure of the last 50 years.
With that said, I understand your point and agree to some extent. And, that's coming from a lifelong Yankees fan. Dave Winfield was my hero and I endured hours of Mantle highlights as my dad reminisced on his childhood.
Mantle was playing 50 years ago. Even Mattingly was a far better player. There's no doubt Jeter is a HoF player, I'll give him that. It's just that his game, while consistent, doesn't warrant the praise he gets. I can name 10 yanks that had more talent, just not as long a career for a variety of reasons. Players I'd pick before god Jeter.
Mattingly (pre-injury)
Mantle- I won't even waste words
Rivera
Munson (pre death)
Reggie
Ruth
Gehrig
Winfield
DiMaggio
Lefty
You're right. I got the years mixed up. Last 20-30 years would be fair. Also, I agree he isn't and wasn't the most talented of the players on the list. I was merely pointing out his importance in the NY sports world. Sure, Seaver, Mattingly, Reggie and Ewing all had their moments, but nothing like Jeter's career in NY. "Yeah, Jeets" bonus points if you get that reference.
Now, back to the regular scheduled ASM 300 thread.
+1 Good Sir...Jeter's importance to the franchise is as important as ASM 300 is to its run.
Popularity
Sales
History
Importance
Etc...