Derek Jeter and the New York Yankees seemed immortal after winning their third straight World Series in 2000. Even after closing the season on such a sour note, the Bronx Bombers prevailed on the back of their shortstop and World Series MVP.
In 2001, the team reloaded en route to winning 95 games. Mike Mussina signed in free agency and boosted the rotation while Roger Clemens went 20-3 and won a sixth Cy Young award. Rookie Alfonso Soriano’s presence rejuvenated the lineup.
It was almost as though winning three titles in a row reminded everyone.