Former NFL MVP Rips ‘Elitist’ Derek Jeter After Controversial Yankees News originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

As things currently stand, New York Yankees fans will not see legendary shortstop Derek Jeter at August’s Old Timers’ Day.

Longtime New York radio host Boomer Esiason is, to say the least, not pleased.

Esiason blasted Jeter on Tuesday morning, one day after the Yankees announced the official Old Timers’ Day guest list. Mariano Rivera, Joe Torre, Ron Guidry and Andy Pettitte are among the notable ex-Yankees players and coaches participating in the Aug. 9 ceremonies. Several former players will compete in a pregame exhibition game, which typically lasts two or three innings.

Jeter previously said he would not play in a baseball or softball game. He attended the last two Old Timers’ Day events, neither of which featured an exhibition game.

“I don’t know, to me, it’s a little bit insulting, I think,” Esiason said. “I mean, come on, you are one of the great players in the team’s history.

“The fans adore you; they love you every time,” Esiason continued. This is why you have gone on to be a very good spokesperson. A very good steward of the game. Somebody who understands the history. Especially the history of this franchise.”

Esiason added that he considered the move to be “elitist.” Co-host Gregg Giannotti didn’t go that far, though he agreed Jeter should have attended Old Timers’ Day, especially considering the 2000 World Series team will be honored that afternoon.

Jeter earned World Series MVP in the Yankees’ five-game victory over the crosstown Mets that fall.

“I’m not saying do it every year,” Esiason said. “But at least when they are celebrating one of your teams.”

Jeter and Alex Rodriguez are the more notable names not participating in Old Timers’ Day.

Related: Yankees Make Unexpected Roger Clemens Announcement After Failed Hall of Fame Pursuit

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 23, 2025, where it first appeared.

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