THE son of former New York Yankees icon Brett Gardner has tragically passed away.
Miller Gardner, 14, died on Sunday afternoon while on a family vacation with his dad, mum Jessica and brother Hunter.
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He is understood to have fallen ill before peacefully passing away in his sleep.
The Gardners said in a touching statement: “Miller was a beloved son and brother and 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.
“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 team-mates and friends, as well as to all other families who have lost a child far too soon as we share their grief.
“Please respect our wishes for privacy as we mourn and search for healing.”
The Yankees added: “Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss.
“It wasn’t just Brett who 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. May Miller rest in peace.”
The teenager wore No11 like his father and was an outfielder and pitcher with his high school in South Carolina.
Gardner spent 14 seasons with the Yankees and won the World Series in 2009.
Aaron Boone was his manager for the last four years of his career and he said: “We’re heartbroken. We talk about being a family all of the time. Brett’s been gone for a few years but that doesn’t stop.
“A lot of people in there know that family intimately. It’s been a really tough day and tough news.
“As best we can, we’ll be praying for the Gardner family and trying to, where we can, offer support. Just very sad and very tough.”
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