CELEBRATING SIR DIDI

Source: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images North America

September 28, 2014 is a date that will be forever etched in the minds of Yankee fans everywhere. The date our captain played his last game in a Yankee uniform and left many fans filled with memories of what once was.

It also left many to wonder what the Yankees would do to fill the big hole left at shortstop.

On December 5, 2014 the answer to that question was came when the Yankees, in a three-team trade, acquired Didi Gregorius. Of course, this acquisition was not very popular early on.  Fans were not ready to say goodbye to the only shortstop they have known and loved since 1996.

Photo: Getty Images

But times have changed, and it is most evident this season, and definitely in these playoffs.  Didi has now become a star and our everyday shortstop, and has even done some things not even the famous Captain could do. Didi Gregorius pulled off a postseason feat against the Indians that his great predecessor never accomplished with two homers in Game 5.

And listen, before you go getting annoyed with me, just understand this; I am not in any way saying he's better than Derek. But the fact of the matter is Didi has made the transition much easier than anyone has thought. This piece from NJ.com goes deeper into why Didi has now become the accepted Yankee shortstop.

Source: Elsa/Getty Images North America

I really find it amusing that this deal might not have happened if not for the guy who is now President of Baseball Operations for the rival Red Sox.  Unwilling to give up, Cashman got creative by trying to bring a third team into trade talks with Arizona. Knowing the Tigers were looking for pitching help, Cashman called then Detroit GM Dave Dombrowski and dangled one of his best young arms.  At first, I think Didi was considered to be a fill-in until the Yankees could find someone or develop a kid in the minors.

Photo: Getty Images

A funny thing has happened though.  Didi has developed into one of the better shortstops in the league... even though Derek has retired and moved on in life becoming the owner of the Miami Marlins.

With Didi playing like he is and the top prospect in baseball waiting in the wings I believe the Yankees are set for quite a while at SS. 

--Michael Carnesi
BYB Writer
Follow me on Twitter: @sevn4evr