Paul Molitor was the type of player that doesn't exist today: a designed hitter/first baseman hybrid who hit for average and only average power. Not that he wouldn't be a coveted asset if he was 30 years younger than his current age of 57. Every major league team has room for a career .306 hitter.

Derek Jeter tied and then passed the former 20-year Brewer today for eighth on the all-time hit list in Sunday's 6-4 win over the Blue Jays.

"I have a lot of respect for him and his career," Jeter told reporters after the game. "Anytime you're eighth in anything, it's special."

The new top 10:

1. Pete Rose, 4256

2. Ty Cobb, 4191

3. Hank Aaron, 3771

4. Stan Musial, 3630

5. Tris Speaker, 3515

6. Honus Wagner, 3430

7. Carl Yastemski, 3419

8. Derek Jeter, 3320

9. Paul Molitor, 3319

10. Eddie Collins, 3314

If he stays injury free, which he likely will given his track record before last year, he should make it into the sixth slot rather easily. If he can channel the form that's led him to eight 200-hit seasons, he'll grab the Speaker's fifth spot.

Statistical speculating, of course, has no place in Jeter's plans this season. The only number he's looking to increase is his World Series rings. Based on the way the Yanks have looked in their first six road games, that possibility still looks good.

"I like how we've been playing," Jeter said. "It's always good to go home, especially for the home opener, after a win."