The News Life

“My son is gone… but his smile will always remain” – Brett Gardner shares the pain of losing his 14-year-old son.Y1

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COSTA RICA — During a late March vacation in Costa Rica, former New York Yankees star BrettGardner and his wife, Jessica, experienced the horror that no parent should ever face: their youngest son, Miller, suddenly passed away after having difficulty breathing on the morning of March 21 while the family was still on a family vacation.

“He fell asleep in our arms…”
In a statement on social media, the Gardners said:

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that 14-year-old Miller left us after feeling tired and sleeping peacefully on March 21.”

“He was a fun-loving guy who loved baseball, football, and all the outdoors. He lived every day to the fullest.”

Brett Gardner #11 of the New York Yankees after a game at Yankee Stadium on May 11, 2016 in New York City ; Brett Gardner smiles with wife Jessica and their two sons Hunter and Miller.

Heartbreaking Cause
Initially, Costa Rican authorities suspected food poisoning that led to respiratory failure as the cause of Miller’s death. They further confirmed that he had passed out in his sleep after several family members fell ill, and the exact cause is still being determined based on the results of forensic tests.

Baseball Community – A Father with a Shared Grief
Even after retiring after 14 seasons with the Yankees (2008–2021), Brett Gardner remains the soul of many generations of fans. The news of his son’s passing has made the opening days of the 2025 season darker than ever.

The Yankees held a moment of silence for Miller on opening day, and many former teammates and fans expressed their condolences at the tearful event.

Brett Gardner #11 of the New York Yankees in action against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium on October 03, 2021 in New York City. New York Yankees defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 1-0. Statement from Brett and Jessica Gardner: With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller.

A Memory That Lives On
Although Miller is gone, his spirit and memories live on, especially in the heart of his father – a man who dedicated his career to baseball.

“We are still struggling to answer the questions. But his smile will always be in our hearts.”

New York Yankee Brett Gardner, his wife Jessica and sons Miller and Hunter attend the CCandy Children's Clothing Line Launch on August 8, 2013 in New York City.

In the grief of his father – who still keeps the “Gardner #11” sign attached to his name – Brett’s words serve as a reminder to the community that sometimes, legends are not on the field – but in the heart that aches but still loves.