Former outfielder for the New York Yankees, Brett Gardner, announced alongside his wife, Jessica, that their 14-year-old son, Miller Gardner, tragically died at the age of 14 on Friday, March 21. As per the couple, Miller died after falling ill during a family vacation.
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Both Brett and Jessica Gardner issued a statement via the New York Yankees, communicating the tragic death of their teenage son.
"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 wrote. "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."
Brett and Jessica thanked everyone who reached out to them to offer their support and encouragement. They feel confident that their loved ones and their faith will help them "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 statement concludes.
Reactions
An outpour of support online took place as soon as the news of Miller's passing became public. The New York Yankees issued a statement on social media, addressing Brett's tragic loss.
"Our hearts are heavy, and the Yankees family is filled with grief after learning of the passing of Miller Gardner," the Yankees wrote. "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' manager Aaron Boone addressed Miller's death, calling the sad news "unimaginable." Boone managed Brett Gardner for four seasons.
"We're heartbroken," Boone said, as per the New York Post. "We talk about being family all the time and even though Brett's been gone for a few years, that doesn't stop. A lot of people in there [in the clubhouse] that know that family intimately. It's a very tough day and very tough news."
Carlos Mendoza, who currently manages the New York Mets and also played in the minor leagues alongside Brett Gardner, also talked about Miller and Brett. "I had a really good relationship with [Gardner] and we're thinking about him," Mendoza emotionally said. "The whole Mets organization is thinking about the Gardner family."
