The Yankees have been bitten by the injury list. It only took two months, but it has happened. One could argue that Aaron Hicks would contribute the same amount injured or not. The facts are the Yankees need to consider calling for backup and what about ringing up Brett Gardner?
"You can certainly make the argument that Gardner would help this Yankees team right now. Giancarlo Stanton and Tim Locastro are on the injured list, Aaron Hicks has struggled mightily (and is now dealing with a hamstring issue) and Joey Gallo continues to seek results," reported SI.com.
Gardner grounds the Yankees. Is he the best player? No. Does he provide the right amount of speed, on base opportunities and defense. Yes. So why is he not playing in 2022?
"According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Gardner actually turned down a one-year deal from the Blue Jays when MLB's lockout ended. The contract was worth $6 million, more than Gardner receiver from New York when he re-signed on a one-year pact last spring."
And in Gardner style, he didn't just turn down the Blue Jays, Rosenthal reported that the Atlanta Braves also sought out the outfielder and he declined the opportunity, hoping for his 15th year in pinstripes, the only team he has played for since coming to the Majors in 2008.
Gardner stated very openly at the final out of last season his intentions and desire to play for the Yankees in 2022. "I hope that I'm back next season," Gardner said, still donning his Yankees jersey and cap long after the final out. "I hope that I'm back in that room, and I hope that I'm in Tampa come February, but there's obviously a long time between now and then, a lot of things that need to get figured out. We'll see what happens."
Listen, when you onboard someone for the first time, it takes time to groom them, help them assimilate to the culture of your organization. All of that takes resources and time. But with Gardner, he knows this clubhouse and his role with the Yankees. He has always served nobly. It is time for the Yankees to call on the veteran one more time. He is needed. And honestly, I would take Gardner any day of the week over Hicks or Gallo. Pick up the phone, Brian Cashman. I am pretty sure Brett Gardner is eagerly awaiting your call for help.
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--Suzie Pinstripe
BYB Senior Managing Editor
Twitter: @suzieprof
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