Miller Gardner, the younger son of former New York Yankees star Brett Gardner, has died after an unexpected illness on a family vacation, his family announced. He was 14.
Miller died “peacefully in his sleep” on March 21, according to Brett and his wife, Jessica, who shared the news in a statement through the Yankees.
“With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller,” the Gardners said. “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 statement added.
The Gardners also share an older son, Hunter.
The Yankees issued a statement offering condolences to the Gardner family, saying that Miller “had a spark in his eyes, an outgoing and feisty personality, and a warm and loving nature.”
“Our hearts are heavy, and the Yankees family is filled with grief after learning of the passing of Miller Gardner,” the Yankees said. “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.”
Brett Gardner, a collegiate walk-on at the College of Charleston, was drafted by the Yankees in the third round of the 2005 MLB Draft. The lefty-hitting outfielder made his MLB debut in 2008 and played his entire 14-year career with the Yankees, helping lead the team to winning the 2009 World Series. He also earned one All-Star selection in 2015 and won a Gold Glove award in 2016.
For his career, Gardner posted a .256 batting average with 139 home runs, a .740 OPS, 274 stolen bases and 578 RBI in 1,688 games for the Yankees.
