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Derek Jeter Announces Retirement From Baseball After 2014 Season: New York Yankees Captain Decided “Months Ago”

Derek Jeter
Derek Jeter announced his retirement from baseball on Facebook on Feb. 12.

This year Derek Jeter will step off the field at Yankee Stadium for the last time after 14 years as a short stop for the New York Yankees. The 39-year-old player announced that he will retire after the 2014 season on Facebook on Wednesday, Feb. 12. 

"I know they say that when you dream you eventually wake up," Jeter wrote. "Well, for some reason, I've never had to wake up. Not just because of my time as a New York Yankee but also because I am living my dream every single day." 

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In 2012 and 2013, the professional baseball star suffered several injuries, including a fractured left ankle, a quadricep strain, and a calf strain, which landed him on the disabled list several times throughout the season. 

He addressed the injuries, noting that they were a contributing factor in his decision to step away from the game. 

"Last year was a tough one for me," he continued. "As I suffered through a bunch of injuries, I realized that some of the things that always came easily to me and were always fun had started to become a struggle. The one thing I always said to myself was that when baseball started to feel more like a job, it would be time to move forward. So really it was months ago when I realized that this season would likely be my last." 

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After conferring with friends and family, the New Jersey native was told to hold off on public announcements until he was 100 percent positive. 

"I could not be more sure," Jeter revealed. "I know it in my heart. The 2014 season will be my last year playing professional baseball." 

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As the Yankees prepare for spring training, their captain assured fans that he remains fully committed to his final season. 

"I want to soak in every moment of every day this year, so I can remember it for the rest of my life," he concluded. "And most importantly, I want to help the Yankees reach our goal of winning another championship." 

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