The teenage son of former New York Yankees baseball star Brett Gardner has died.
Gardner, 41, and his wife Jessica announced the 14-year-old’s passing in a statement posted on Twitter.
Miller Gardner fell ill on Friday while on vacation and subsequently passed away. The family reportedly maintained a home in Holly Hill, South Carolina.
Their son wasn’t the only one who got sick. Other family members fell ill on the getaway as well and the parents are searching for answers.
“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.
The teen was a sportsman like his father who is known for being a 2015 All-Star.
“He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day,” the parents said about Miller Gardner who was the youngest of their two sons.
“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,” they said.
The couple, who married in 2007, have another son named Hunter who is 16 years old.
Brett Gardner is a World Series champion outfielder who won the Gold Glove Award in 2016 and played with the Yankees for 14 years from 2008 to 2021.
“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,” the statement said. “Please respect our wishes for privacy as we mourn and search for healing.”
The post did not reveal where the family was on vacation or what caused Miller Gardner’s unexpected illness.
“It wasn't just Brett who literally grew up in the organization for more than 17 years, so did his wife, Jessica, and their two boys, Hunter and Miller,” the sports team wrote.
Brett Gardner, who is left-handed, helped the Yankees win their 27th World Series championship in 2009. He won the MLB Heart & Hustle award in 2017.
“Our hearts are heavy, and the Yankees family is filled with grief after learning of the passing of Miller Gardner,” the New York Yankees stated. “Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss.”
In mourning the loss, the Yankees described Miller Gardner as having “a spark in his eyes, an outgoing and feisty personality, and a warm and loving nature.”
“We grieve with Brett, Jessica, Hunter, and their community of family and friends,” the Yankees team said. “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.”