The Gardners were enjoying a family vacation in Costa Rica, a trip meant for relaxation and bonding. But their world turned upside down in moments. What began as a joyful getaway quickly became every parent’s worst nightmare. Out of nowhere, Miller fell ill along with several other family members during the trip. Even then Gardners couldn’t imagine the situation would take such a devasting turn. They are still grappling with the shock and heartbreak of losing their youngest son. But more than sorrow, their eyes search for answers. In an emotional statement, Brett and Jessica shared their anguish: “We have so many questions and so few answers at this point.” The suddenness of Miller’s passing, coupled with shared illness within the family, has left them struggling to process the tragedy.

While the exact cause of his death remains unknown, the family revealed that he “passed away peacefully in his sleep” on the morning of Friday, March 21. This detail, though heartbreaking, suggests that he did not suffer for long, offering a small glimmer of comfort. The Gardners have chosen to keep further details private as they need space to process this painful time.

Like many, Miller was energetic. But more than that, he was a real, lively young man. The beloved son of Brett and Jessica had an “infectious smile.” Inspired by his father, he loved baseball but that wasn’t the only sport he enjoyed. Man of many trades: Miller was also fond of football, golf, hunting, and fishing. Today, he may not be among us, but he taught everyone to live their lives “to the fullest every single day.”

He was probably better at football than many would expect. At his South Carolina school last fall, he astounded everyone by catching a pass and then, running it for a touchdown. What a moment it was! But it was most special for Brett, as his son sported jersey No. 11, the same number as him during his Yankees career. It wasn’t just about his athleticism, Miller reflected pride in carrying on his father’s legacy.

A shared sorrow: the baseball world rallies around Brett Gardner

This loss goes far beyond the Gardner family. Mets’ Manager, Carlos Mendoza, who played two seasons alongside Brett in the minor leagues in 2006 and 2007, chocked up on his postgame press conference on Sunday. He managed to say, “I have two boys too, and they were very close.” The Yankees also expressed their sorrow and support to the grieving family.  “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,” they said. But now, they are left to mourn the loss of a boy who had “sparks in his eyes,” like his father, when he debuted in 2008.

This devasting news brought an overwhelming wave of support and condolences from the entire baseball community. MLB Network host Alanna Rizzo shared her shock, saying, “This is just incomprehensible. Devastated for the Gardner family.” MLB.com reporter Bryan Hoch also expressed his sadness, tweeting, “Heartbreaking news about Brett and Jessica Gardner’s youngest son, Miller.” Messages like these, and so many more, show just how much respect and love people have for the Gardners.

Brett carried a legacy on his shoulders when he stepped foot on the ballfield. In fact, one of his most special memories with his father, Jerry Gardner, was in the 2016 game, when he flipped a foul ball to Jerry in the stands. He wanted moments like this with his sons if not baseball, then perhaps football for the young Miller. Spring training, in particular, became a special time for the family as Brett loved sharing his world with them. Tragically, Miller is survived by his older brother, Hunter, leaving his father and family just with his memories.