Why The Yankees Really Brought Derek Jeter Back Early

The Yankees are now saying that Derek Jeter was brought back early because Brett Gardner and Travis Hafner have minor contusion injuries and a depleted bench needed a jolt.  That is pure comedy.  Don't buy into that.  Here are the real reasons the Yankee captain is back before, not after, the All-Star break:

1. Finances.  Ratings on YES are down and no one is going to the games.  The Yanks think DJ can be the savior at the box office and on television.
2. Lineup woes.  Jeter is a situational hitter who is clutch in big spots and provides a righthanded bat.  The Yankee lineup is atrocious right now.  Jeter can provide some extra punch.  He also gives Joe Girardi the option of going lefty-righty-lefty at the top, say Ichiro or Gardner when in-Jeter-Cano.  That looks a lot different to a pitcher.
3. Jeter's begging.  Jeter told Brian Cashman that he wanted to come back early and was ready.  He said the same thing to manager Joe Girardi.  When Jeter speaks, the Yanks listen.

By:  Mike Lindsley, "Mid-Day with Mike," M-F 1-4, Yankees pre/post game host on 104.5 The Team ESPN Radio.  Follow him on Twitter at Twitter.com/MikeLSports.