#8: Won Rookie of the Year in 1996
Jeter’s first full season in 1996 couldn’t have gone much better. He hit .314 with 10 home runs and played steady defense at shortstop, quickly earning the trust of teammates and fans. His energy and confidence gave the Yankees a spark that carried them all season long.

At just 22 years old, Jeter won the American League Rookie of the Year award. Even more impressive, he helped lead the Yankees to their first World Series title since 1978. That season marked his arrival as a rising star and the start of one of baseball’s greatest careers.
