Gardner's option for the 2022 season was declined Thursday, and he is now a free agent.
Gardner had both a player and club option to remain with the Yankees next season, though both were turned down. The player option was worth $2.3 million, so Gardner likely either believes he could earn more in free agency, or he may be contemplating retirement. Gardner hit only .222/.327/.362 across 461 plate appearances in 2021 and would be entering his age-38 season in 2022.