NEW YORK -- The New York Yankees have made a significant addition to their roster, claiming 25-year-old shortstop Jeter Downs off waivers from the Washington Nationals on Tuesday. Interestingly, Downs shares his name with none other than former Yankees captain Derek Jeter.

Selected as the 32nd overall pick by the Cincinnati Reds in the 2017 amateur draft, Downs made his highly-anticipated big league debut with the Boston Red Sox in 2022. During his debut season, he recorded a batting average of .154, slamming one home run and driving in four runs. However, his tenure with the Red Sox would be short-lived as he was subsequently claimed off waivers by the Nationals on December 22, 2022.

With the Nationals this year, Downs showcased glimpses of his potential, going 2-for-5 at the plate with one RBI and stealing two bases. Prior to his brief stint in the majors, he displayed impressive performance at the Triple-A level, hitting .236 with three home runs, 18 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases while playing for the Rochester Red Wings in the International League.

Prior to making his long-awaited big league debut last year, Downs received a heartwarming pregame message from none other than Derek Jeter himself. Despite the generational connection, Jeter jokingly advised Downs, "Congratulations and good luck... unless you are playing the Yankees."

The acquisition of Jeter Downs by the Yankees adds depth and promising talent to their infield lineup. With his notable name and potential, baseball fans everywhere will eagerly anticipate the impact he can make as he joins the storied franchise in the iconic pinstripes.