Today in Performance Sneaker History: Derek Jeter Leads New York to 4-0 Sweep to Win 1998 World Series

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Complex Original

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The 2013 World Series will begin this Wednesday, but on this day in 1998, the New York Yankees wrapped up one of their most successful campaigns ever. After piling up 114 regular season wins, the Yankees made their way through the Playoffs and eventually met the San Diego Padres in the 1998 World Series. This was New York's second World Series appearance in three years, and the 24th in franchise history. Early on in the series, the Yankees took a commanding 3-0 lead, and Game 4 took place on October 21, 1998.

With their backs against the wall, the San Diego Padres were looking to muster up the resiliency needed to turn the tables on New York. Hosting the Yankees from Qualcomm Stadium, the pressure proved to be too much for San Diego as New York powered to a 3-0 shutout to take the championship. Although third baseman Scott Brosius would win MVP honors for the '98 World Series, it was Derek Jeter who lead the Yankees during the decisive Game 4. Jeter went 2-4 at the plate and led his team with 2 runs, providing a bit of foreshadowing into the tremendous successes he would experience later in his career.

Derek Jeter's signature Air Jordan line has been around for the bulk of his career, but in 1998, Jeter wore Nike cleats. Although these '98 cleats were not a signature model, Derek Jeter's loyalty to the Swoosh and winning ways lead to the game's longest-running endorsed line. You can shop Nike's baseball cleat selection here and find Air Jordan Jeter products at Eastbay.

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