Quite a few people seem to have missed this point so it is refreshing to see it brought up.
Some may ridicule you based on stats only but they are missing the fact that the compliment is based on integrity as well. I am not a Yankees fan but looking objectively at what Jeter has accomplished over his career, his work ethics, his demeanor, being able to stay away from PEDs, not allowing his fame to get the better of his ego, being able to stay away from public controversy etc. is really huge in this day and age. From my perspective, he is the embodiment of what baseball is all about. Some will disagree with my point of view but so be it cuz I know we don't all see things in the same hues and tones.