Joe Girardi was emotional about the devastating news that Brett Gardner’s son, Miller, died at the age of 14.
Girardi was Gardner’s manager for 10 seasons with the Yankees and knows him and his family well.
YES Network play-by-play man Michael Kay announced the news during the Yankees’ Grapefruit League game against the Rays on Sunday and was joined in the booth by Girardi and David Cone.
“You get to know their kids, and they get to know yours,” Girardi said. “It hits hard. I am just devastated for Brett and Jessica.”
Kay also acknowledged that it was difficult to talk about baseball given the circumstances.
Gardner and his wife, Jessica, revealed the news in a statement through the Yankees, saying that Miller fell ill “along with several other family members while on vacation.”
“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,” they said. “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.
“Please respect our wishes for privacy as we mourn and search for healing.”
Gardner spent his entire 14-year career with the Yankees, last playing in 2021.
“Our hearts are heavy, and the Yankees family is filled with grief after learning of the passing of Miller Gardner,” the Yankees said in a statement. “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.”
