Derek Jeter is my idol. His class, graciousness, and work ethic are qualities that I admire, and seek to replicate. Throughout my childhood, Jeter defined my love for baseball through his identity both on and off the field. He was a fierce competitor, a world-class persona, and my childhood hero.

When Jeter announced his retirement before the 2014 season, I was shocked. I couldn’t believe that the game of baseball could possibly go on without him. Who defines the New York Yankees now? Who will be the new face of major league baseball?

Following Jeter’s retirement, there has been an apparent lack of excitement around the New York Yankees.

In past years, this perennial powerhouse has put up huge numbers for attendance, averaging up to 53,000 fans per game in the past decade. However, this season the Yankees rank dead last in road attendance out of every team in the MLB, averaging 22,820 fans.

A career of clutchness and leadership, the captain’s footsteps will be tough to fill. Not only is he one of the greatest competitors in Yankees history, he is a player respected by many: something that is hard to find in this day and age.

Despite Jeter’s inevitable absence, the New York Yankees are now 22-17 and sitting atop the American League East Division. Both the return of Alex Rodriguez and the improved pitching rotation have given the Yankees a big boost, as they are still attaining the high standard that has defined the dominant franchise.

But beyond this success, the Yankees are barren. It’s inevitable that the storylines will be perpetual for the Bronx Bombers, but there’s no substance, no theme to this New York Yankee ball club. I will always love the Yankees, but it’s a flavorless ballclub without Jeter.
The truth of the matter is, there is no fix for Derek Jeter’s retirement. I just can’t see another player that can replace Jeter’s greatness.