New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter made his Grapefruit League debut on Thursday and went 0 for 2 at the plate while playing five innings in the field in an 8-2 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The 39-year-old Jeter, who played in only 17 games last season because of a fractured ankle and leg problems, grounded into a double play his first time up against Pirates starter Charlie Morton and grounded out to third base against left-hander Jeff Locke in his second at-bat. He batted second in the order behind outfielder Brett Gardner.
In the field, Jeter’s only action was a tag at second base on a stolen base attempt.
“I feel like I haven’t played a game in a couple of years,” Jeter said. “That’s what it felt like, even though I played a couple last year. I think just getting out there (felt good). I don’t know if there’s one thing in particular, but just getting into a game, feeling good, that’s what I was most excited about.”
Jeter announced earlier this month that he will retire after the 2014 season. He received a standing ovation when he left Thursday’s game.
“I’ve (run) already,” Jeter said. “I’ve run a lot. You guys may have not seen it, but I’ve run a lot. It’s always good to do stuff in game action. I wasn’t out there for such a long time, so it’s good to get back in game action. But I’m not concerned about running. That doesn’t cross my mind.”