During the New York Yankees’ prime era, Derek Jeter was the sensational shortstop leading the charge. He was joined by several incredible players on his journey, including the most feared slugger Darryl Strawberry. Known for his power-hitting, the Straw Man joined the team in 1995 and played an important role in securing the team’s dynasty. He also had the privilege of witnessing the birth of the former shortstop’s incredible MLB career. Together, they lifted three World Series championship trophies before the veteran’s retirement in 1999.

Fast forward a few years later, and the Yankees added another star to their roster – Alex Rodriguez. While both Captain Clutch and A-Rod were excellent players in their own right, their relationship was far from rosy. The two drifted apart, and the captain and his teammate found themselves at odds. Strawberry, in the docuseries, The Captain had a few thoughts to share on the matter.

Darryl Strawberry spoke up about Derek Jeter’s acceptance of Alex Rodriguez 

Derek Jeter’s rise to the peak of baseball excellence was not a solo effort. Darryl Strawberry, his teammate, and mentor helped the shortstop navigate the professional side of baseball. Their bond went beyond the confines of the field and matured into a brotherhood that still lasts to this day.

During an episode of the docuseries, The Captain, Strawberry shared his thoughts on Jeter’s relationship with Rodriguez. He believed that Jeter never fully embraced him on some level. “Derek was the leader you know. He gets to crown everybody. Derek does not say anything bad about anybody. If he does put a stop on it, and embrace you to be a part of the team, we got a chance to be great. But I don’t think Derek truly accepted him.”

READ MORE: “She Almost Passed Away”: Derek Jeter Once Expressed Pure Fear While Recalling Wife Hannah Jeter’s Unimaginable Near-Death Experience

Looking back on A-Rod and Jeter’s shared history, the first crack in their relationship came when the former made a comment that he thought to be playful ribbing, but that the latter perceived as a slight on his leadership skills. Rodriguez said that Jeter was not “leadership material” and was only successful because “he was surrounded by talented people.” This comment caused a rift between the two players that never fully healed.

The two are reuniting once again! 

However, the two since have matured as people and have made an effort to mend old wounds. Now that they are reuniting as teammates on Fox, as analysts, Alex Rodriguez warmly welcomed Derek Jeter to the team with open arms. 

Looks like another chapter of their relationship is set to begin anew, and one that promises to be a great one!

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