Miller Gardner tribute. Photo:
Marina Watts
The New York Yankees held a moment of silence for former player Brett Gardner’s son Miller before their Opening Day game against the Milwaukee Brewers.
Gary Phillips of New York Daily News reported on X that the team would honor Miller — who suddenly fell ill and died during a vacation with his family — before the game on Thursday, March 27 at Yankee Stadium.
“There will be additional moments of silence for former visiting clubhouse manager Lou Cucuzza Sr. and #Brewers announcer Bob Uecker on Saturday and Sunday, respectively,” Phillips reported.
Brett spent his entire professional baseball career, 14 years, playing for the Yankees. His playing career ended after the 2021 season, though he didn’t officially announce his retirement.
Brett Gardner #11 of the New York Yankees at bat against the Cleveland Indians during the second inning at Yankee Stadium on September 17, 2021 in New York City. Adam Hunger/Getty
His former teammate, Alex Rodriguez, reacted to the tragedy and told PEOPLE he “can’t even begin to comprehend the feelings” the Gardner family is going through.
“My thoughts and prayers go out to him, his wife, Jessica, and obviously his entire family,” Rodriguez said.
On March 23, the official Yankees X account shared a statement from Brett and his wife, Jessica Gardner, announcing that their son died unexpectedly during a getaway with his family. The cause of death has not yet been determined and the investigation is still ongoing.
“With heavy hearts, we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller,” the statement began. “He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation.”
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. JP Yim/Getty
They continued, “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.”
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
The pair then described Miller as “a beloved son and brother,” adding, “We cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile.”
“He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day,” they said of Miller.
The Yankees will host the Brewers at Yankee Stadium on Thursday, March 27 at 3:05 p.m. ET.
