Derek Jeter says Boston fans have softened on him since the Red Sox started winning championships.
The Yankees shortstop and future Hall of Famer will finish his career in Boston this weekend after a storybook finish on his last night at Yankee Stadium — a game-winning hit.
Jeter spoke to NBC News' Brian Williams before his swan song. Asked who talks the most trash, he said that was easy — Red Sox fans. But he said things have changed since the Red Sox broke their 86-year title drought in 2004.
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"Before Boston won, I think they were a bit nastier," he said. "And I think ever since they've won a couple championships, they've sort of softened up a little bit. ... I think it went from a hatred now to a respect factor. They may not necessarily like you. But I think they have respect. But Boston, yeah, they talk the most."
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Jeter said he's always loved playing there because of the electric atmosphere in Fenway Park.
"The city, I love the city," he said. "They didn't like me, necessarily, very much, like I said, early on. But I think they've — at least some of them may have some sort of respect for me now."
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