Gatorade Helps Derek Jeter Thank Fans as Yankees Shortstop Prepares to Retire

Derek Jeter sure knows how to make an exit.

Days after the future Hall of Famer was feted at Yankee Stadium as a thank you for everything he has brought to the New York Yankees organization, Jeter paired up with one of his sponsors - Gatorade - to turn the tables and thank his fans.

Gatorade closed off several blocks surrounding Yankee Stadium in New York City's Bronx boro and allowed Jeter to roam free as he greeted and shook hands with fans on the streets and inside neighborhood shops and restaurants.

"We've been waiting for you to come in here since '98, at least," says an employee of Stan's Sports Bar, to which Jeter quips back, "You never invited me," before signing a photo of himself displayed on the bar.

"It was a true collaboration between Derek and Gatorade," said Gatorade's senior director of consumer engagement, Molly Carter, of the 90-second spot.

According to Carter, the idea behind the ad was all Jeter's, as he even picked out the background music - Frank Sinatra's "My Way." They started filming and "just kind of let Jeter go."

According to Ad Week, Gatorade is also set to run a full-page ad in the New York Daily News and Sports Illustrated on Sept. 28-29, which Jeter also penned himself.

"New York," he writes. "You've been with me for the past 20 years. Your grit fueled my will. Your history strengthened my resolve. Your scrutiny exposed my flaws. Your expectation was my inspiration. From my first at bat until my final out, you helped make me who I am. For that I am forever thankful."

The 40-year-old Jeter has been the Yankees' shortstop since 1992, helping the team bring home five World Series championships, and nabbing himself five Gold Glove awards. He is set to retire at the end of this season, which will conclude on Sept. 28.