Jeffrey Maier

Jeffrey Maier

• Bats Left, Throws Right
• Height 5' 11"
• School Wesleyan University
• High School Northern Valley Regional High School at Old Tappan

• Born November 15, 1983 in USA

Biographical Information

New York Yankees fan Jeff Maier is most famous for his impact on a key play in Game 1 of the American League Championship Series on October 9, 1996. He was 12 at the time. When Derek Jeter hit a ball towards the seats in the 8th inning, Maier reached his glove over the right-field fence at Yankee Stadium and deflected the ball from Baltimore Orioles outfielder Tony Tarasco. Despite what seemed like a clear-cut case of fan interference, umpire Rich Garcia ruled the play a home run for Jeter, helping the New York Yankees to eventually win the game in extra innings. The Orioles protested, but American League President Gene Budig upheld Garcia's call.

Ten years later Maier set the Wesleyan University career record with 189 hits. A center fielder, Maier's career average in college as of April 22nd was .373. He was known primarily for his contact hitting and dedication. Majoring in government in college, he hoped to eventually become general manager of a major league team.

On February 21, 2015, he sold the glove he used to catch Jeter's home run at auction for $22,705.