Aaron Hicks Tommy John Surgery Definitely Clears Path for Brett Gardner to Return to Yankees
By Parker White
Aaron Hicks needing Tommy John surgery isn't a shock to the Yankee faithful, but what will Brian Cashman and Co. do to replace him in center field? Maybe Hicks is ready to go at the end of the 2020 season, but in all likelihood, he'll miss the entire campaign.
It's possible that the Yankees make a trade to bring in an established talent, but why not bring back a veteran coming off a career year?
Hicks being out 8-10 months puts his return between late-June and late-August. Have to think that increases the chances of Brett Gardner’s return; have heard a one-year deal is likely.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) October 24, 2019
Brett Gardner has spent his entire 12-year career in pinstripes, and while it was believed that 2019 would be his swan song with the Yankees, he ended up having one of his best years and belted a career-best 28 home runs.
No, they shouldn't lock him up to a huge contract, but they could probably sign Gardner to a one-year deal at a respectable rate.
2019 Brett Gardner:
— Tanner Ramsey (@tanner_james16) October 24, 2019
28 HR
.344 wOBA
115 wRC+
3.6 fWAR
Expect regression, but I’m okay brining Gardy back to fill in. https://t.co/rpNgGSOFq5
You wonder if Gardner can man center field on an everyday basis, but he played close to a 100 games out there this year and committed just one error. All Gardner needs to do is make the routine play, which he's certainly shown capable of doing over the years.