It is no secret that Brett Gardner wants to return to the New York Yankees. Likewise, he intends on playing in 2021, marking his 14th year in the majors. As he has spent his entire career in pinstripes, it is not a surprise that he wants to be a part of the only team he has ever known.
The problem is that interest is very one sided. According to reports, not only have the Yankees not made an offer to Gardner, but they have not even spoken since Halloween when they opted to pay him a $2.5 million buyout instead of exercising his $10 million option for 2021.
Time for the New York Yankees and Brett Gardner to part ways
A major problem in Gardner returning to New York is that there really is not a place for him in the lineup. Their starting outfield is hypothetically set with Aaron Judge, Aaron Hicks, and Clint Frazier. Mike Tauschman can back up all three positions, and the Yankees acquired Greg Allen in January. There just is not a place for Gardner on the Yankees right now.
This is something that Gardner needs to realize. If he is going to continue his career in 2021, he will need to head elsewhere. Hoping out hope that the Yankees will call, or that an injury will force their hand, will lead to a long wait for a phone call that may never come.
Gardner could help a team in 2021. He still produced a solid .223/.354/.392 batting line in his 158 plate appearances, hitting five homers and five doubles. Although his batting average was low, he still got on base with regularity and made consistent contact. Gardner also showed well in the field, showing solid range while saving a run.
With his ability to play left and center, Gardner can still be valuable. A team such as the Phillies, who are in need of a center fielder, could be a fit. He would also be reunited with former manager Joe Girardi and teammate Didi Gregorius, providing a touch of being with the Yankees.
That may be as close as he comes to being in New York. The New York Yankees just do not seem interested in bringing Brett Gardner back in 2021.