The New York Yankees and the Gardner family are in mourning following the tragic death of Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner.
The devastating news was announced by the family through the Yankees organization on Sunday.
In a heartfelt statement, Brett Gardner and his wife, Jessica, revealed that Miller had fallen ill during a family vacation. Several other family members had also become ill during the trip.
However, the circumstances surrounding his passing remain uncertain.
“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,” the Gardners shared in their statement.
The family expressed their deep grief and struggle to comprehend life without Miller‘s bright and infectious smile.
Describing him as a beloved son and brother, the Gardners painted a picture of a boy who cherished life and loved nothing more than spending time with his family and friends while pursuing his passions.
“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,” the statement continued.
Yankees offer unconditional support to Gardner family
The New York Yankees organization, which Gardner spent 14 years with during his Major League Baseball career, also released a statement expressing their sorrow and unwavering support for the grieving family.
“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,” the Yankees‘ statement read.
The Yankees organization reflected on Miller’s vibrant personality, describing him as having a “spark in his eyes, an outgoing and feisty personality, and a warm and loving nature.”
Their message also emphasized the enduring bond between the Yankees family and the Gardners, promising unconditional support during this devastating time.
“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.”
A community united in grief
In addition to the Yankees’ message of support, countless fans, teammates, and members of the baseball community have expressed their condolences. Miller‘s passing has united the baseball world in grief and sympathy for the Gardner family.
Brett Gardner, a fan-favorite who last played for the Yankees in 2021, has been spending his post-baseball life with his family in South Carolina. His son’s untimely passing leaves an unimaginable void that words alone cannot fill.
As the family searches for healing amid the tragedy, they have requested privacy during this challenging period. In their statement, they extended their prayers to other families who have also suffered the unbearable loss of a child.
The baseball community stands with the Gardners as they mourn, offering prayers, love, and support to a family that has been part of the Yankees’ legacy for nearly two decades.
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