Yankees Rumors: The latest on a potential Brett Gardner reunion

May 29, 2018; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees left fielder Brett Gardner (11) rounds the bases after hitting a game tying two run home run against the Houston Astros during the ninth inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees have taken a more cost-efficient route this off-season, solving holes on the roster. While they did consume the contract of Josh Donaldson, which will pay him $50 million over the next two seasons, the Bombers have otherwise been conservative with their approach. The Yankees plugged their shortstop position with Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Anthony Rizzo at first base, passing on Freddie Freeman and Carlos Correa.

However, the outfield still remains a position of need, especially the depth category. While most fans may cringe at the thought of Brett Gardner making a return to the Yankees, the team hasn’t ruled out a potential extension in the coming days as the free-agent market wears thin.

Brendan Kuty of NJ.com believes that Gardner will play in 2022, it’s just a matter of where:

If Gardner had his way, he’d likely already be in pinstripes. His agent, Joe Bick, told NJ Advance Media over the weekend that Gardner wants to play in 2022, and that he’d like to finish his career with the Yankees. But the sides haven’t been able to come to an agreement yet.

Gardner and the Yankees haven’t been able to come to an agreement just yet, as the 38-year-old outfielder is coming off a two-year, $5.15 million deal.

Given the fact of the Yankees have had to supplement injuries constantly in the outfield the past few seasons, Gardner has been thrust into a starting role nearly every year. This past season, Gardner hit .222 with 10 homers and 39 RBIs over 140 games.

He still boasts a solid 13% walk rate, but his strikeout rate has ballooned the past two seasons.

Still providing solid defensive metrics, Gardy at least can hold down the fort in the outfield if need be. However, his offensive contributions are dwindling, as his average has dropped significantly over the past three years. Gardner is still capable of stealing a few bases when called upon, but at 38 years old, preparing to turn 39, age is undoubtedly taking its toll.

A one-year deal worth $2 million might be all he can muster if he is truly willing to play one more year in the Bronx. The Yankees haven’t cleared out his locker just yet in hopes of a potential return, which would suggest it is likely at this point.