Brett Gardner, Yankees Finally Agree On Deal
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At times it felt inevitable, and at other times doubt was cast. In the end, Brett Gardner is returning to the Yankees. The role he will play is unclear, and might be determined day-by-day. Clint Frazier is generally viewed as the team’s starting left fielder heading into 2021. Perhaps the fact that Gardner may not be asked to play every day is why he took a slight hometown discount. Our site had Gardner predicted at a 1-year, $6 million deal. Instead, he signed for 1-year and $4 million with a player option for the 2022 season.
Gardner has spent his entire 13-year career with the Yankees. He has accumulated a 43.0 bWAR and maintains the ability to play centerfield even in his later years.
The Yankees will have to clear one space on the 40-man roster to make room for Gardner. Immediate candidates are recently acquired outfielder Greg Allen and relief pitcher Albert Abreu, who is out of minor league options.
The Yankee veteran brings a defensive and speedy aspect to the team that is lathered in power and muscle. But even Gardner smashed 28 homers in 2019. Even if he does not have a regular spot in the outfield, he can spell Frazier or Hicks at any time and can come off the bench to pinch run or play defense. The Yankees are certainly a better team with Gardner on the roster.