From Minor League Baseball On SI · · 1m 40s
Yankees prospect George Lombard Jr. gets advice from Derek Jeter
The top shortstop prospect met with the Hall of Famer before his major league debut to learn what it takes to succeed in pinstripes.
In brief
The top shortstop prospect met with the Hall of Famer before his major league debut to learn what it takes to succeed in pinstripes. Derek Jeter's advice to be authentic and treat people well can help young players stay grounded while managing the pressures of playing in the majors. Originally reported by Minor League…
Lombard meets with Jeter
Yankees' top prospect George Lombard Jr. met with Derek Jeter in January. The 21-year-old shortstop asked the Hall of Famer about playing for New York.
Be a stand-up dude
Jeter's key advice to Lombard was simple: be a stand-up dude. The 14-time All-Star emphasized authenticity and being a good person above all else.
The little things matter
Jeter told Lombard to be authentic in the clubhouse, with media, and with fans. Being upfront, honest, and remembering names keeps you grounded and humble.
“It keeps you grounded and keeps you humble and it allows you to keep doing the stuff on the field and producing on the field.”
A rocky start in the majors
In his first 32 MLB games, Lombard is hitting .218 with three home runs and 11 RBIs. The highly touted defender has faced some adversity early on.
Defensive struggles in August
Lombard went through an unexpected streak of six straight games with an error in August. His defense has looked better lately despite the rough patch.
Yankees stick with Lombard
New York recalled Anthony Volpe to play second base after Jazz Chisholm Jr. got injured. The Yankees are keeping Lombard at shortstop for now.
Playoff baseball awaits
The Yankees clinched a playoff spot on Monday. Lombard should get his first taste of October baseball in the Bronx soon.
The bottom line
Derek Jeter's advice to be authentic and treat people well can help young players stay grounded while managing the pressures of playing in the majors.
