Question of the day: Who’s right: Brian Cashman or Derek Jeter?

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Writers from around the Tribune Co. weigh in on the topic. Check back throughout the day for more responses, vote in the poll and feel free to leave a comment of your own.

Juan C. Rodriguez, Sun Sentinel

Derek Jeter’s importance to the Yankees has never been understated –- not by teammates, opponents, the media or Brian Cashman and the rest of the front office. Give the Yankees credit for identifying just how important Jeter would continue being to them and paying him accordingly. The Yankees gave him a 10-year, $189-million contract after the 2000 season. How many contracts of that term has any team given since then? One (the Yankees to Alex Rodriguez). No other contract besides that of Rodriguez has ever been forged for more total dollars. The Yankees handsomely compensated Jeter for those five World Championships. This next deal should be more about Jeter’s contribution going forward. Three years for $45 million isn’t a low-ball offer. The Yankees ultimately will tack on a fourth year and increase the average annual value to $18 million or so. If Jeter needs more respect than that, he should try getting it elsewhere.