Yankee's Derek Jeter Will Hit No. 1 in the Batting Order

A season after a posting career low numbers behind the plate, Derek Jeter will not be moved from his spot as the leadoff hitter. Joe Girardi said in a news conference today that he believes Jeter will be back in form by the time the season starts.

Girardi noted Jeter's professionalism and familiarity with his role as the captain of the Yankees as reasons why he would be able to bounce back.  Girardi also laid to rest any questions about the lingering effects of Jeter's contract negotiations during the off-season.  The negotiations were tense for weeks as both sides tried to come together to keep Jeter a Yankee for the rest of his career.

Girardi said, "He understands what he’s supposed to do. I think he’ll come in prepared to play, he’ll come in prepared to have a good season, and help us to win a championship and I don’t think it will really affect him."