Aaron Judge honors memory of Brett Gardner’s son Miller during the Yankees' opening day

On the opening day, the New York Yankees faced the Milwaukee Brewers at Yankee Stadium in New York. It was a wonderful moment for the team, but something else occupied Aaron Judge's mind. The Yankees captain talked about a devastating loss after the game, one that had touched him and many others in the baseball world.Before the game, the Yankees observed a moment of silence in memory of Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of ex-Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner. Gardner died unexpectedly on March 21 as his family toured Costa Rica over spring break. His sudden loss struck many, including current and former Yankees players, very close to the heart.Aaron Judge, 32, addressed the team after the game about how much Brett Gardner has meant to him and the team over the years.He described Brett Gardner as a leader and even a “second dad” to some players. “He may not have been the biggest superstar, but he was always there for us,” Aaron Judge said.Aaron Judge also shared that many players from different Major League Baseball teams reached out to him after hearing about Miller Gardner’s passing. He said this showed how much Brett Gardner had impacted baseball. To honor his former teammate, Judge performed Brett Gardner’s signature flex move during the game, something he has done since Brett Gardner retired in 2021.The Yankees community supports Brett Gardner and his wife, Jessica Gardner, in this moment of grief. Yankees skipper Aaron Boone, 52, reacted to the tragic loss and expressed that the team would be playing with Miller Gardner in their hearts all season long.Fans also paid tribute during the game. At the top of the first inning, Yankees fans chanted Brett Gardner’s name during the traditional roll call. It was a powerful moment that showed how much support the family has from the baseball community.On March 23, the Yankees’ official X account shared a statement from Brett Gardner and Jessica Gardner confirming Miller Gardner’s passing. The cause of death has not been determined, and an investigation is ongoing.Aaron Judge and the Yankees made it clear that Miller Gardner will always be remembered. The team, the fans, and the baseball community stand by Brett Gardner and his family in this difficult time.Also Read: What Does Aaron Judge’s Wife Samantha Bracksieck Do For A Living?