Brett Gardner has stated that he and his family have been left with "so many questions" following the tragic passing of his teenage son, Miller.
The Gardner family has announced the passing of 14-year-old Miller. Credit: New York Yankees / Facebook
On Sunday (March 23), New York Yankees star Gardner, 41, shared the devastating news that his son Miller had died at the age of 14 after "falling ill" while on a family vacation.
In a statement shared via the Yankee's social media pages, Gardner and his wife Jessica announced: "With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller.
"He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation."
Brett and Jessica revealed that Miller "passed away peacefully in his sleep" on Friday (March 21).
Brett Gardiner says his family have been left with "so many questions". Credit: Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images
As of this writing, very few details regarding the teen's death have been revealed, with the grieving parents admitting: "We have so many questions and so few answers at this point".
Elsewhere in their announcement, the family paid tribute to Miller, who they described as a "beloved son and brother".
"We cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile," the family continued. "He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day.
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. 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 family then asked for privacy at this time as they "mourn and search for healing".
Miller fell ill while the family was on vacation. Credit: New York Yankees / Facebook
Following the announcement, many Yankees fans took to X (formerly Twitter) to send their regards to the family.
"Oh my, what tragic news. I am so very sorry for this loss. Unimaginable. As a father of two boys, my heart is heavy for Brett and his family. He is one of my favorite players in the game. Godspeed, Miller," one fan wrote.
Another added: " Today everyone in the baseball community is a Brett Gardner family fan, can't even imagine the pain of losing a child. Condolences."
A third replied: "Oh my god, RIP Miller. Our hearts are broken for the Gardner family."
And a fourth shared: "Words can’t describe how terrible this is. Life is so fragile… thoughts are with the Gardner family through this difficult time."
Gardner spent his entire Major League Baseball career as an outfielder with the Yankees. Credit: Elsa / Getty
The Yankees organization also paid tribute to the Gardner family with an emotional statement.
“Our hearts are heavy, and the Yankees family is filled with grief after learning of the passing of Miller Gardner,” the team said. “Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss. It wasn’t just Brett who literally grew up in this organization for more than 17 years — so did his wife, Jessica, and their two boys, Hunter and Miller.
“We grieve with Brett, Jessica, Hunter, and their community of family and friends in mourning the loss of Miller, who had a spark in his eyes, an outgoing and feisty personality, and a warm and loving nature.
“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.”
Our thoughts continue to go out to Miller's family and loved ones at this time.