New details emerge in death of former Yankees star Brett Gardner’s 14-year-old son

Former Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner’s son, Miller, died during a family trip to Costa Rica.

Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, died on March 21 while on vacation with his family at a resort in Costa Rica, according to Inside Edition. The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica reportedly confirmed the news.

The Gardner family shared the heartbreaking announcement in a statement released by the Yankees on March 23. “With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller,” wrote Brett, 41, and his wife, Jessica. “He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation. He passed away peacefully in his sleep.”

They described Miller as a “beloved son and brother” with an “infectious smile,” adding that he loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends. “He lived life to the fullest every single day,” the statement read.

Gardner, who played all 14 seasons of his MLB career with the Yankees before retiring in 2021, also shares an older son, Hunter, with Jessica. The couple married in 2007. As of now, no official cause of death has been announced.

The Yankees organization also released a statement offering their “unconditional and absolute” support for the Gardner family, emphasizing their desire for privacy during this time.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone, who coached Gardner during his final four seasons, addressed the tragedy at spring training in Tampa. “It’s a very tough day and very tough news,” Boone said. “As best we can, we’ll be praying for the Gardner family and offering support.”

New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza, who played alongside Gardner in the Yankees’ minor league system and later coached him, also offered condolences. Mendoza shared that their sons were close in age, adding, “I’m thinking about him, and the whole Mets organization is thinking about the Gardner family.”