The Toronto Blue Jays are interested in adding outfielder Brett Gardner before the 2022 season gets underway, but the veteran is holding out hope for a new deal with the New York Yankees, reports Joel Sherman of the New York Post.
Toronto has reportedly been in touch with the 38-year-old's representation in case a deal with the Yankees doesn't come to fruition.
Gardner's reps expect him to play a 15th season, although he could retire if he doesn't sign with the Bronx Bombers, Sherman adds.
The South Carolina native has spent his entire career with the Yankees, slashing .256/.342/.398 with 139 home runs, 578 RBIs, and 274 steals in 1,688 games. He hit .222/.327/.362 with 10 homers, 39 RBIs, and four steals in 140 contests last season.
Gardner would provide the Blue Jays with a left-handed bat in a righty-dominant lineup as well as veteran leadership with a World Series title under his belt.