Yankees mourn the death of Brett Gardner's youngest son

Gary Phillips, New York Daily News on Mar 23, 2025

Published in Baseball

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TAMPA, Fla. — The New York Yankees shared tragic news on Sunday afternoon, announcing the death of Brett Gardner’s youngest son, Miller.

According to a statement released by the former Yankees outfielder and his wife, Jessica, Miller died after falling ill on vacation. He was 14.

“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 21,” the Gardners wrote, adding that other family members fell ill on vacation. “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.”

The Yankees also released a statement.

“Our hearts are heavy, and the Yankees family is filled with grief after learning of the passing of Miller Gardner,” it read. “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.”

A fan favorite with the Yankees, Gardner spent his entire 14-year career in pinstripes. The 40-year-old played for the team from 2008-2021 and was a rookie on the Bombers’ last championship squad in 2009.

When remnants of the Yankees’ last dynasty retired in the middle of Gardner’s career, he and CC Sabathia assumed leadership roles in the clubhouse. They bridged the gap and passed the leadership torch to members of the current roster, including Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole.

Gardner, whose playing career ended sooner than he would have liked, has remained private and focused on family in retirement, which was always his plan. The South Carolina native has stayed away from Yankee Stadium and missed the organization’s Old-Timers’ Day celebration of the 2009 team last year so that he could attend one of Hunter’s football games.

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