Day 11: Brett Gardner

Age: 27 Bats: Left Throws: Left Height: 5'10" Weight: 180

Brett Gardner was drafted by the New York Yankees in the 3rd round of the 2005 MLB June Amateur Draft. Gardner spent a little over three years in the Yankees Minor League system, before making his debut in June of 2008. Gardner played at every level before getting the call to the big leagues, including a 63 game stretch in 2006 with the Tampa Yankees.

In Tampa, the speedy Gardner was the perfect lead-off hitter. He posted an incredible .433 on base percentage to go along with 30 steals in only 232 at bats. Gardner also hit for a .323 batting average, and drew 43. Gardner also played a great center field in Tampa. He used his speed to get to fly balls that most center fielders couldn't and still had a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage.

In 2008 Gardner was asked to join the New York Yankees, and his career 156 stolen bases in the Minor Leagues, definitely helped him get the nod over others. Gardner fit in perfectly with the Yankees, giving them a definite base stealing threat. In 852 at bats with the New York Yankees Gardner has a solid .358 on base percentage, a .268 batting average, 113 walks, and his most glaring attribute, 186 stolen bases.

Gardner was basically an everyday player last year and put together his best season in the Major Leagues. Appearing in 150 games, he hit for a .277 batting average, hit five homeruns, and stole 47 bases. Gardner looks to have another impressive season in the big leagues in 2011 and the Tampa Yankees want to wish him the best of luck.