Derek Jeter Approaches 3,000 Hits
In the game of baseball, numbers are celebrated unlike in any other sport. A baseball fan knows exactly what you're talking about when you mention numbers like 56, 61, 500, or 3,000. As Derek Jeter nears the 3,000-hit mark, great fanfare surrounds his every at bat. Reaching this hallmark will put Jeter even with Roberto Clemente and see him chasing names like Cap and Tris. Playing his entire career with the New York Yankees won't hurt The Captain's legacy either. However, it will be this impending achievement that will help lead the charge of Jeter's enshrinement in Cooperstown.
Should Jeter stay with the Yankees, he won't be the only member in the 3,000-Hit Club to play their entire career for one team. Stan Musial, Al Kaline, George Brett, Cal Ripken Jr., Tony Gwynn, Robin Yount and Craig Biggio all reached the plateau without switching clubs.
Biggio, the last player to hit 3,000, played for the Houston Astros from 1988 to 2007. The seven-time All-Star has his fair share of cards available to collectors considering he played during the hobby's "Over Production Era." Due to this fact, collectors can cheaply add the future Hall of Famer to their collection. Biggio's first cards from 1988 Fleer Update and Score Rookie & Traded can be had for nearly the cost of shipping, while an authenticated autograph baseball can be had for around $50.
When it comes to Jeter cards and items, collectors need to dig a little deeper into their pockets. For instance, ungraded copies of his 1993 SP rookie card have sold online lately for around $80. To get a baseball with Jeter's signature, collectors should be ready to spend no less than $200. With all the hype surrounding Jeter's approach to 3,000 hits, it may not be the time to buy as prices are a little inflated. However, as Jeter sets his path for the Hall of Fame, prices shouldn't be expected to drop much. The truth is, collectors who are truly fans of the game should enjoy watching this event unfold and note its importance within the game.
You can check out our Derek Jeter Rookie Card List and Buying Guide here.
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