Brett Gardner Net Worth, Bio, Career, Contract & Personal Life

Brett Gardner is a retired American professional baseball outfielder who has a net worth of $25 million as of 2025.

Best known for his long-standing career with the New York Yankees, Brett Gardner is celebrated as one of the most reliable and durable players in Major League Baseball (MLB) during his era. A fan favorite and clubhouse leader, Gardner spent his entire 14-year MLB career with the Yankees, earning a World Series title and multiple accolades along the way. His combination of speed, defensive prowess, and consistent hitting made him one of the key figures in the Yankees’ post-2000 resurgence.

Early Life and College Career

Brett Gardner was born on August 24, 1983, in Holly Hill, South Carolina. He grew up on his family’s farm, where he learned the value of hard work from an early age. Gardner played baseball at Holly Hill Academy before walking on at the College of Charleston, where his performance as an outfielder caught the attention of MLB scouts.

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Despite going undrafted in his first eligible year, Gardner’s perseverance paid off when the Yankees selected him in the third round of the 2005 MLB Draft, marking the beginning of a professional journey that would become synonymous with grit and loyalty.

Major League Baseball Career

Gardner made his MLB debut with the Yankees in 2008 and quickly earned a reputation for his speed on the basepaths and elite defense in the outfield. By 2009, he became an integral part of the Yankees’ roster, contributing to their World Series victory that year—New York’s 27th title.

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Over his career, Gardner earned an All-Star selection in 2015, and in 2016, he won his first Gold Glove Award for his defensive excellence in left field. His leadership on and off the field, coupled with his professionalism, made him a respected veteran presence in the Yankees clubhouse.

Gardner retired after the 2021 MLB season with impressive stats: over 1,300 hits, 274 stolen bases, and a career .256 batting average. His loyalty to the Yankees, playing every season of his career with the same franchise, is a rarity in modern baseball.

Endorsements and Income Sources

While the bulk of Brett Gardner’s wealth comes from his MLB contracts—including a peak annual salary of $12.5 million—he also secured additional earnings through endorsement deals with brands such as Nike and Rawlings during his playing days.

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Post-retirement, Gardner has remained involved in baseball, participating in Yankees alumni events, spring training camps, and broadcasting work. Though not a full-time analyst, he has occasionally appeared on YES Network and MLB Network to share his insights on the sport.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Off the field, Gardner is known for his down-to-earth personality and strong family values. He is married to Jessica Gardner, and together they have two children. Despite his success, Gardner has maintained a relatively low profile, preferring life away from the spotlight.

A committed philanthropist, Gardner supports numerous charitable initiatives, including the Turn 2 Foundation—a youth development program created by his former teammate Derek Jeter. He also contributes to cancer research and organizations supporting veterans, reflecting his desire to give back to the community.

Life After Baseball

Since stepping away from professional baseball, Gardner has focused on spending more time with his family and investing in real estate and agriculture, returning to his South Carolina roots. He reportedly owns farmland and is exploring ventures related to sustainable farming and agribusiness.

While Gardner has not publicly ruled out a return to baseball in a front-office or coaching capacity, he seems content enjoying life beyond the diamond, balancing family, philanthropy, and personal business interests.

Legacy

Brett Gardner will be remembered as a Yankees legend, known for his hustle, leadership, and quiet consistency. He left behind a blueprint for future players on how to succeed through hard work, humility, and loyalty.

Though no longer patrolling the outfield, Gardner’s influence on the Yankees and MLB continues through his mentorship and connection to the game.