Brett Gardner’s contractual deadlock with the Yankees is no different from Justin Turner’s with the Dodgers. The expectation within the industry remains that both freelancers will remain in place. But both linger in the market as spring training approaches, raising the possibility that such deals might not work after all.
Turner, 36, is looking for a contract of at least three years. The Brewers, and maybe a few more teams, seem willing to give it to him. The Dodgers almost certainly prefer Turner for no more than two years, but have yet to fill in his position at third base or replace his right-handed strength, effectively leaving the lights on for him to return.
Gardner, 37, is in a tighter spot. Aaron Judge, Aaron Hicks and Clint Frazier are the planned starting outfielders for the Yankees. Giancarlo Stanton becomes the DH, and Mike Tauchman can fill Gardner’s role as a left-handed outfielder from the bench. On Saturday, the Yankees added Jay …