You Brettcha: Gardner back in lineup to restore order

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Yankees got their igniter back.

Brett Gardner returned to the lineup on Friday — hitting leadoff and playing leftfield. The 34-year-old veteran had been out since June 16 due to inflammation in his right knee.

“I think he’s been anxious to get back in there the last couple days,” Aaron Boone said. “We were just playing it safe. And then with the lefty (James Paxton) in there (Thursday) we just felt it was best to wait until today.”

Gardner has a .734 OPS after a rough start at the plate while playing excellent defense all season. Boone appreciates his presence in the clubhouse, where Gardner leads by example.

“The tone he sets, the culture he helps create,” Boone said. “He’s a guy who never gives away a pitch and his grit rubs off on the other guys.”

Gardner underwent an MRI June 17 which revealed the inflammation, something he’d never dealt with. Boone expected it wouldn’t be a situation that would require Gardner to go on the disabled list.

ELLS NO

Jacoby Ellsbury told reporters at the team’s minor-league complex that he expects to return this season. “That’s the plan,” Ellsbury said.

Ellsbury still hasn’t returned to baseball activities, however, and Boone had “no clue” as to when it was possible that he’d come back. “He still has to clear some hurdles,” Boone said.

Ellsbury has not played this season due to several injuries, dating back to early in spring training. He is still owed three years and $68 million.

“I’m getting better,” Ellsbury (back, oblique, hip, heel) told reporters. “I’m doing exercises and treatment and ice, that sort of things. Moving in the right direction. I’m excited about it. Hopefully playing in some (rehab) games in the near future.”

The Bombers also don’t need him with Gardner, Aaron Hicks, Giancarlo Stanton and Aaron Judge performing well. Ellsbury could perhaps become useful later as a pinch-runner and in the event of injuries.

Ellsbury visited the team in the clubhouse prior to Friday’s game.

TANAKA TIME

Masahiro Tanaka (hamstrings) threw on flat ground Friday. He is slated to get on a mound Sunday where he’ll throw a bullpen session.

Tanaka will then remain in Tampa and throw another bullpen, likely Tuesday. If that goes well, he’ll appear in some type of simulated game later in the week.