It has long been reported that Brett Gardner would be returning to the Yankees for his 13th season, and now it's official.
SNY's Andy Martino confirmed that Gardner has signed a one-year deal with a club option for 2021 to stay in the Bronx. The deal is worth $12.5 million for this season, with the option set at $10 million.
The Yankees had their efforts focused on landing Gerrit Cole, which is why Gardner was left on the backburner until now. But, as Martino had been reporting, both sides were optimistic a deal would get done.
Back in November, Yankees GM Brian Cashman noted Gardner being someone he wants back, but wouldn't mention if it would be another one-year deal.
"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 earned $7.5 million last season, and after belting a career-high in homers with 28 while slashing .251/.325/.503 in 141 games, he garnered a bigger wage this year.
With Aaron Hicks out to start the season due to Tommy John surgery, Gardner's re-signing makes even more sense. He'll likely man center field during that span while hopefully providing the same patient, yet impactful veteran bat at the plate.