As the Yankees focus their efforts on landing free agents Gerrit Cole or Stephen Strasburg, they remain optimistic about a reunion with outfielder Brett Gardner, reports SNY's Andy Martino.

Martino notes that the Gardner situation could potentially resolve when the Yankees' payroll situation is clearer.

In November, Yankees GM Brian Cashman was open about the team's desire to have Gardner back, and wouldn't say whether he felt it would take more than a one-year deal to get it done.

"I wouldn't compromise our efforts to re-signing a player," Cashman said when asked about the potential length of contract Gardner could receive. "He just clearly put himself in a great position this free agent winter because of the year he's had. We've known how good Gardy has been and is for a long time. ... We'd love to have that continue."

Gardner, 36, earned $7.5 million last season as he hit .251/.325/.503 with a career-high 28 homers in 141 games.

He played 98 games in center field (where he was worth -2 DRS) and 45 games in left field (where he was worth 7 DRS).

With Aaron Hicks expected to miss a large chunk of the 2020 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery, the return of Gardner would give the Yanks some more certainty in the outfield.

MARTINO: Yankees' square focus is on Cole, Strasburg >> Read More

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