Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, has died at age 14, a statement released Sunday by the team says. Gardner died on March 21 after getting sick on a family vacation, the former MLB All-Star and his wife, Jessica, said in the statement. Further details surrounding the death of Gardner's son were not immediately available.
The Yankees released the Gardner family's full statement on their son's death on X: "With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller. He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation. We have so many questions and so few answers at this point, but we do know that he passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Friday, March 21st. Miller was a beloved son and brother and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile. He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day. We are so thankful to all who have reached out to offer support and encouragement during this difficult time and we are confident our faith, family, and friends will help us navigate this unimaginable loss. Our prayers go out to Miller's teammates and friends, as well as to all other families who have lost a child far too soon as we share their grief. Please respect our wishes for privacy as we mourn and search for healing."
The Yankees later shared their own statement on the death of Gardner's son: "Our hearts are heavy, and the Yankees family is filled with grief after learning of the passing of Miller Gardner. Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss. It wasn't just Brett who literally grew up in this organization for more than 17 years -- so did his wife, Jessica, and their two boys, Hunter and Miller. We grieve with Brett, Jessica, Hunter, and their community of family and friends in mourning the loss of Miller, who had a spark in his eyes, an outgoing and feisty personality, and a warm and loving nature. Our love for the Gardner family is unconditional and absolute, and we will offer our enduring support while understanding their desire for privacy at this time. May Miller rest in peace."
Brett Gardner, who is 41 years old, played his entire 14-year career in the Bronx before retiring after the 2021 season. He had a .256 batting average with 274 stolen bases and 139 home runs in 1,688 games for New York. Gardner was a 2015 American League All-Star and he won a Gold Glove in 2016. He was part of the team that won its last World Series championship in 2009, just a year after making his MLB debut.
The news of Miller Gardner's sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the baseball community. As fans and players alike mourn the loss, the Gardners have expressed their overwhelming gratitude for the outpouring of support from friends, family, and fans. In a heartfelt appeal, the family hopes for privacy during this incredibly challenging time as they navigate through their grief.
Fans have taken to social media to express their condolences, with many reflecting on the deep impact Miller's family has had on the Yankees and the broader baseball community. One fan noted, "I cannot even imagine how a parent can deal with losing a child like this. I am devastated for the Gardners," emphasizing the love and dedication Brett Gardner has shown towards his children throughout his career.
No further details surrounding the illness that took Miller's life have been released, which adds to the family's heartbreak as they search for answers. As they share memories of Miller—a boy who was not only a son but a brother and a friend—the Gardners remember him as someone who lived each day fully, cherished each moment spent with loved ones, and had an unwavering zest for life.
The Yankees organization, deeply entrenched in the lives of Brett and Jessica Gardner, continues to rally around the family following Miller's passing. This tragic incident serves as a painful reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the bonds that bring family and community together in times of sorrow.
As the Gardners begin to process this loss, their commitment to family and faith remains strong, serving as a light in their darkest hours. The Miller Gardner tragedy resonates far beyond the baseball field, uniting a community in empathy, grief, and shared humanity.
