The New York Yankees and Brett Gardner are both believed to be interested in him in staying put. Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Report: Brett Gardner prefers to return to Yankees in 2021

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 1/25/21

It appears the New York Yankees have an interest in retaining outfielder Brett Gardner.

According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Yankees have reopened contract discussions with Gardner, who prefers to return to New York in 2021.

The Yankees and Brett Gardner's camp last spoke a little more than a week ago, per source. Gardner intends to play somewhere in 2021, though the Yankees are clearly his top choice.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) January 25, 2021

With the signings of D.J. LeMahieu, Corey Kluber and the trade for Jameson Taillon, the Yankees are inching closer to the luxury tax barrier. A reunion with Gardner wouldn't cost too much, though.

In 13 seasons with the Yankees, the 37-year-old slashed .259/.343/.401 with 129 home runs and 539 RBI. Last season, Gardner slashed .223/.354/.392 with five home runs and 15 RBI.

New York's outfield is a bit crowded with Aaron Judge, Aaron Hicks and Clint Frazier. Giancarlo Stanton and Mike Tauchman could also see time in the outfield as well.

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