Astros honored to share in Jeter's final season

NEW YORK -- This week's series against the Yankees marks the final time the Astros will see Derek Jeter, who will retire this season following 20 years with the Yankees. Considering the Astros are the youngest team in baseball, many of the players grew up watching Jeter in his heyday.

"Being able to be on the same field and play against a guy of his capabilities that has meant so much to the game of baseball is pretty special," catcher Jason Castro said. "It's something I'll never forget. I got a chance to experience Mariano Rivera last year in his last season in New York for the All-Star Game, and to be able to be here and be a part of Jeter's kind of farewell tour is another special moment."

Astros manager Bo Porter, who's only two years older than Jeter, said he could talk about Jeter for "hours and hours."

"He's one of the best players in our game, one of the most respected players," he said. "I have a tremendous amount of respect for what he's meant for the game of baseball, and I'm going to be sad to see him go."

Hard-throwing Astros rookie reliever Mike Foltynewicz is hoping for a chance to face him.

"I've seen him on TV my whole life, and it's pretty big," he said. "I hope I can pitch against him. He's had a huge impact on the game of baseball ever since he came in. He's such a class act and everyone respects him, and to get an opportunity to go out there and play against him after all he's done for the game of baseball is pretty special."