The New York Yankees still have around $10 million to play with until they hit the luxury tax threshold of $210 million. They could use another reliever, and they need a left-handed batter to help balance the lineup and serve as depth.
Brett Gardner, who has spent all his career with the New York Yankees, is the logical choice. Being a left-handed hitter who started focusing on power in the last few years, he can really take advantage of the short right field porch of Yankee Stadium.
Gardner hit 21 home runs in 2017 and 28 in 2019, but struggled last season to the tune of a .223/.354/.392 line. The good thing is that he seemed to start turning things around late in the season and during the playoffs, and that he still had a 110 wRC+ thanks to his ability to take walks.
Even at 37, Gardner remains an asset in center field and on the basepaths. However, the Yankees don’t seem to be on any type of rush to sign him, according to a recent report by Randy Miller of NJ Advance Media.
The Yankees are taking their time
The writer said that Gardner is currently at home waiting for the Yankees to make a move. He explains that the team hasn’t even begun negotiations with the outfielder’s camp to bring him back to the Bronx.
With Spring Training only a few days away, it seems likely that the Yankees make a move to improve their bench and bring a lefty bat soon. General manager Brian Cashman has repeatedly stated his love for Gardner, but so far, it hasn’t materialized in the form of an offer.
The Yankees decided not to exercise a $10 million club option they had for Gardner in 2021, instead opting to give him a $2.5 million buyout. Will the longtime outfielder return for one more season in pinstripes?