Son of former MLB outfielder Brett Gardner dies after falling ill on vacation

(NEXSTAR) — Former New York Yankees outfielder and Lowcountry native Brett Gardner’s son, 14-year-old Miller Gardner, has died after falling ill while on vacation, the team announced Sunday.

The Yankees shared a statement from Brett and his wife, Jessica, on X, which read in part: “With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller. He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation.”

The couple went on to say that they “have so many questions and so few answers at this point.” Miller died “peacefully” in his sleep Friday morning.

“Miller was a beloved son and brother and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile,” the statement continued. “He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day.”

The Gardners, who share another son, Hunter, asked for privacy as they “mourn and search for healing,” and did not provide any additional details.

In a separate statement, the team wrote that “the Yankees family is filled with grief after learning of the passing of Miller Gardner.”

“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,” the team added.

Brett Gardner, a native of South Carolina who attended the College of Charleston, was drafted by the Yankees in 2008. He spent all of his major league career with New York, playing in the 2009 World Series that the team would secure and earning a Gold Glove in 2016.

“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,” the Yankees statement read. “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.”

Miller Gardner had been playing football in South Carolina, ESPN reports, and wore No. 11, the same number worn by his father while he played for the Yankees. Miller also played as an outfielder and pitcher on the baseball diamond, according to The Athletic.

Gardner last played with the Yankees in 2021.