The New York Yankees have a decision to make regarding veteran outfielder Brett Gardner. Having already spent 12 seasons in the Bronx, the Yankees Captain is looking to re-join the team on a one year deal, similar to his contract in 2019.
Last season, he signed a one-year, $7.5 million contract to stick around with the Yankees and contend for a World Series. This off-season, general manager Brian Cashman has been in talks with Gardner and his representation, and they continue to strive towards finding a meeting point to bring him back for a 13th year.
“Yankees made another offer to Brett Gardner so the sides continue to talk,†Heyman tweeted. “Gardy has made clear he prefers to return to them for a 13th season. They love him as well, and with Hicks sidelined to start the year, it’s hard to imagine Gardner and the Yankees not working things out.â€
Yankees made another offer to Brett Gardner so the sides continue to talk. Gardy has made clear he prefers to return to them for a 13th season. They love him as well, and with Hicks sidelined to start the year, it’s hard to imagine Gardner and the Yankees not working things out.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 6, 2019
With starting centerfielder, Aaron Hicks, set to miss 8 to 10 months after having Tommy John surgery in late October, re-signing Gardner is justifiable. Also, Gardner’s numbers from 2019 deserve more appreciation, as he hit career highs in home runs with 28, RBIs (74), and .829 OPS. He could earn more money in 2020 then the $7.5 million he raked in last season, based on his production at the plate. He is also a quality outfielder that can be a starting option in place of injured players.
Considering Giancarlo Stanton and Aaron Judge’s injuries last season and their inconsistency in the category, Gardner is a perfect player to supplement any losses. The Yankees also have Mike Tauchman, who is expected to play a more significant role with the team moving forward.
The New York Yankees’ muscle and toughness comes from their savvy veteran:
Gardner is much more than just a player, though, he’s a testament to the grit and passion bleeding from the Yankees organization. His infamous bat busting scene became a viral sensation across baseball and developed into a sign of success at the plate, with players mimicking his actions after getting on base.
The reality is, Gardner played well enough to earn another contract, and Cashman is more than happy to oblige when he came calling for another season in the Bronx. There’s no question he should be a priority signing.