Report: Yankees, Gardner discussing deal

Brett Gardner appears to be getting closer to extending his long tenure with the New York Yankees.

The Yankees and Gardner's camp are already discussing a deal to bring the veteran outfielder back to the Bronx next season, a source told MLB.com's Mark Feinsand.

With fellow outfielder Aaron Hicks expected to miss the first half of the 2020 campaign after undergoing Tommy John surgery at the end of October, Feinsand notes the fit appears a natural one for both parties.

Were he to return to the Yankees, Gardner would join an outfield mix comprised of Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, Mike Tauchman, and Clint Frazier.

Last season was one of Gardner's best in the majors. The one-time All-Star posted career highs in home runs (28), RBIs (74), and OPS (.829). He was also a positive defensive contributor in the outfield, recording five defensive runs saved and a 3.0 in UZR, according to FanGraphs.

Gardner, 36, has spent his entire career with the Yankees after they drafted him in 2005.