Jeter passes Aparicio for games played at shortstop

CHICAGO -- Derek Jeter logged a notable career milestone on Friday when he appeared in his 2,583rd career game at shortstop, tying Hall of Famer and former White Sox standout Luis Aparicio for second place on baseball's all-time list. Jeter played in his 2,584th game at shortstop Saturday to pass Aparicio. Jeter also became the American League leader in games played at the position.

Aparicio and Jeter trail only Omar Vizquel (2,709) on the all-time list. The Yankees only have 115 regular-season games remaining in what Jeter has said will be his final season, so Jeter will finish his career second on the list behind Vizquel, who played the majority of his career in the AL but also spent some time in the National League.

"Aparicio, everyone knows how great he is. I guess it's ironic that we're here," Jeter said. "It's hard to believe when you think about the history of the game that there's only one guy that has played more games. It's something I'm proud of. I take pride in doing my job and being able to play every day. To have your name in the company of someone like him is pretty special."

Jeter, who has only played shortstop during his big league career, has made the most appearances at any single position in baseball history without having played another position.

"It's amazing what he's done in his career," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said. "The consistency, still being able to play shortstop; it's pretty amazing."

Girardi said that Jeter's professional attitude is responsible for his longevity.

"His effort in the winters and during the year, taking care of his body, taking care of himself at night," Girardi said. "You don't read about Derek at places at 2 and 3 [in the morning]; that's just not who he is. He understands that he has a responsibility to the team and he takes care of it."

With a run scored in Friday's 6-5 loss to the White Sox, Jeter also has 1,889 career runs, passing Lou Gehrig for second place on the Yankees' all-time list (Babe Ruth is first with 1,958). Jeter ranks 10th on Major League Baseball's all-time list (Alex Rodriguez is ninth with 1,919).