WHEN JETER GETS BACK, IT'S GAME ON

After expecting Derek Jeter to return on April 6th, we learned that he wouldn't be back in the line-up until May 1st. Maybe, read HERE. Of course there is always the possibility that he takes longer. The Yankees have a way of down playing things, so you never really know. I know a lot of Yankees fans are worried about the Captain and how we will play when he returns. I'm here to tell you, don't panic!

Jeter has a way of coming back from these things stronger than ever. Remember in 2011, in his chase for 3,000 hits? When Jeter got injured that year, he was hitting .260. There were a lot of critics debating whether he was really still Captain Clutch. Then, he came back from his injury, got hit #3,000 and it was magic. By the end of August, he was hitting .387.

We are missing Jeter at the head of the line-up. That much is true. While he have guys like Ichiro Suzuki, and Brett Gardner who are capable of heading the line-up, Jeter brings a certain element with him when he hits in the lead-off spot.

The team is struggling right now. We have a losing record right now, and seems like they just haven't gelled together yet...but maybe yesterday was the start of something. Aside from Andy Pettitte and Mariano Rivera last Thursday and CC Sabathia yesterday, it doesn't seem as if the pitchers have settled and our hitters haven't really found their rhythm. It's been tough to watch. People are prematurely starting to worry about the mission for 28. But we will be okay.

Look, I understand how Yankees fans are feeling. It's easy to get exasperated when the team is under performing. I get it, but I'm optimistic. Partially because the Yankees and Joe Girardi have a way of creating miracles where people think there are none to be seen. But also because I know that when Jeter comes back, it is a whole new ball game.

I grew up in the Jeter era. I have witnessed him go from an unsure rookie to an impeccable leader. His presence on the field does make a huge difference. Not saying that the Yankees aren't capable of pulling out wins without him, but the change in everyone is evident when Jeter is around.

Jeter will be back. He will hit and field in a very Jeter-esque fashion; that is to say very well. He will settle the guys in the clubhouse down. Captain at the helm of his ship. This rough spot? It will pass. And when he comes back? Get your eye black, ladies and gentlemen. The mission for 28 is still on. Humming beneath the surface until the Captain comes along to unleash it.

I believe that... I really do.

--Erica Morales, BYB Writer
Twitter: @e_morales1804

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