New York Yankees need their esteemed veteran for the playoffs

For only the second time in 12 years, New York Yankees veteran leader and outfielder Brett Gardner has broken the 20 home run mark.

Gardner, known for his speed and slap-shot abilities, has adjusted his launch angle to provide more upward lift increasing home runs. While his batting average is just .245, he has earned 58 RBIs, 11 more than in 2010 where his BA was .277. He only hit five homers that year, which shows how influential the long ball can be in supporting runs and helping compensate for lack of pitching, something the Yankees have dealt with during the 2019 season.

The Yankees will undoubtedly need their “wise man” for the playoffs. In what was thought to be his final season with the Bombers, Gardner has justified his worth and that he is deserving of another year with the only team he has ever played for.

Brett Gardner has been a beast for the New York Yankees:

Brett’s influence comes in more ways than just his home runs totals — his leadership and experience have helped the younger players on the roster develop and mature.

He’s been great. He’s been such a good player between the lines,” manager Aaron Boone said. “For as banged up as we’ve been, he’s been one of the constants. He’s such a grinder. He’s a guy that everyone looks to. The edge that he brings to the ballpark every day rubs off on guys. There’s obviously that leadership element and quality he brings that is so important, but I think it’s really important that we not overlook what a good player he is, and what a good two-way player he’s been.

For the Yanks this season, Gardner has been an integral piece of the offense and defense as players have dropped due to injuries. From Giancarlo Stanton, Mike Tauchman, Aaron Hicks, to Cameron Maybin, Gardner has kept his health, even as the veteran of the group.

Moving forward, the Bombers will need him to continue producing and will likely start him during the playoffs in the field if Stanton is unable. Ideally, he would act as a utility player in the outfield as the intensity elevates during the postseason. He’s a great option to supplement injuries.