The New York Yankees, even after adding reliever Darren O’Day, have a little wiggle room to maneuver if they want to sign another low-cost reliever, or a lefty bat. Longtime Yankee Brett Gardner remains a free agent, and while he may sign with another team, he has stated his strong preference to remain in pinstripes for the 2021 season.
For the Yankees, bringing Gardner back could make sense despite his .223/.354/.392 line last season. He still managed to have a 110 wRC+, he brings some power to take advantage of the short right field porch, and he remains an asset as a baserunner and fielder. Additionally, his bat seemed to wake up down the stretch and during the playoffs.
It’s clear that the Yankees won’t be paying Gardner a $12.5 million salary like last year. However, if the price goes significantly down, they may still fit him on the budget, as they don’t want to surpass the $210M threshold.
While speaking on YES Network’s Yankees Hot Stove (link to the NJ Advance Media article here,) general manager Brian Cashman once again complimented Gardner, but didn’t commit on bringing him back for the 2021 campaign. It remains a possibility, though.
The Yankees “love” Gardner
“You know how we love Brett Gardner,†Cashman said. “He’s been here for a long time. We’ve bet on him forever. He’s always produced and honored those assessments that we’ve made, so it’s been a great marriage. I’m not saying you know it’s going to continue. I’m not going to say that it’s over. But he’s still on the board and we’re always trying to figure out a way to make ourselves better.â€
Per spotrac.com, the New York Yankees have about $9 million left until they hit the $210 million mark in payroll. Fitting Gardner, another reliever (also a possibility) and leaving some money for a potential deadline acquisition could be tricky.
“Time will tell if we can continue on our journey together, but nothing but bouquets Brett Gardner’s way,†Cashman said.