Brett Gardner’s contractual standoff with the Yankees is no different from that of Justin Turner with the Dodgers. The expectation within the industry is that both free agents will remain stationary. But both remain on the market as spring training approaches, creating the possibility that such businesses may not work after all.
Turner, 36, is looking for a contract for at least three years. The Brewers, and maybe another team or two, seem ready to give it to him. The Dodgers almost certainly prefer Turner for no more than two years, but have not yet occupied their position on third base or replaced their right-handed power, leaving the light on for him to return.
Gardner, 37, is in a more difficult situation. Aaron Judge, Aaron Hicks and Clint Frazier are the first Yankees outfielders. Giancarlo Stanton will be the DH, and Mike Tauchman can fill Gardner’s role as a left-handed outfielder at the bank. On Saturday, the Yankees added Jay …