Hal Steinbrenner talks about Derek Jeter's deal
It’s more than likely that Derek Jeter would like to come to an agreement with the New York Yankees before the new year. However, both the free agent, who has spent his entire professional career in Yankee pinstripes, and his boss, Hal Steinbrenner, understand
that the on-going contract negotiations are all business.
As such, Steinbrenner comprehends the importance of keeping one of the most historic figures in franchise history in New York. “I would like to be relaxing on Christmas Eve,” Steinbrenner said from the MLB’s general managers meetings, which concluded on Thursday
18 November. “But look, it’ll take as long as it takes. The important thing is, we don’t make it personal, because it’s not personal. We have a lot of respect for each other, and we gotta keep talking. That’s the deal. We gotta keep talking, and we will.”
Although Steinbrenner was mum on the details of the deal, ESPNNewYork.com was able to estimate the projected payout of the shortstop’s potential new contract earlier this week. According to the website, the club is looking to offer the 15-year veteran a three-year
deal worth a projected $21 million per year. However, the website also reported that Jeter is interested in a contract with a four-year minimum.
For now, the future seems uncertain. Jeter’s career and legacy will remain in New York, regardless of who he decides to sign with. However, Steinbrenner has acknowledged on at least two occasions that the talks between the organization and its most recognizable
player could potentially get messy. “We’re working hard at it,”' Steinbrenner said. “It’s definitely a big deal. I’m happy with the tenor of things. I think there’s mutual respect on both sides. There’s a lot of history there.”
Yet, he remains aware of what’s at stake as the Yankees’ captain’s deal hangs in the balance. “Look, this is a business negotiation. None of us wants to make it personal, because it’s not personal,” Steinbrenner continued. “My family’s got a lot of respect
for Derek and I believe it is a mutual thing. It’s been a good history. We’re gonna do our best to keep it by the book.”
Tags: