New York Yankees still need Brett Gardner next season
The New York Yankees declined options on several veterans to start the offseason but will likely bring Brett Gardner back.
As the Major League Baseball hot stove begins, it’s annual winter sparks the New York Yankees are looking to add pieces for next season. A member that is almost guaranteed to return is the longest-tenured Yankees player Brett Gardner.
Gardner was exceptional during the 2019 season with a career-high 28 home runs and steady outfield defense. He was only supposed to serve as an alternate outfielder heading into spring training last year, but due to multiple injuries was a core member of the American League East champions. The 36-year-old will more than likely return on another one year deal and be the ultimate insurance plan heading into 2020.
Gardner may have never been labeled as an official captain of the Yankees, but he’s shown the leadership needed to do the job. His passion and flair for the game have made him a fan favorite and, most importantly, his winning focus. The veteran outfielder last month told reporters about his displeasure over how the team performed at the end of the season, heading into the playoffs.
"“I don’t want to say I was concerned,’’ Gardner said. “It just didn’t feel great and that’s not how you want to be playing when it’s almost the most important time of the season. You want to be at your best and I wasn’t sure we were.’’"
The Yankees will need Gardner’s clubhouse presence and championship experience again next season. He has shown the ability to evolve his game with the surprising power numbers and consistent strong defense. The recent ejections in games is another example of the excitement that still resides in the former champion that can rub off on younger players.
Next. New York Yankees have three options for Didi Gregorius. dark
Gardner would be entering his 13th season as a member of the Yankees and after CC Sabathia’s retirement will be the only remaining player from the 2009 championship team.