Former MLB pitcher Rob Gardner, who played for both the New York Mets and New York Yankees, passed away Oct. 21 at the age of 78.
Drafted by the Minnesota Twins as a high school senior, Gardner played for the Mets, Yankees, Brewers, Oakland A’s and the Chicago Cubs throughout his 13-year career. Gardner still holds the Mets record for the most scoreless innings pitched in a game, a feat achieved on Oct. 2, 1965, his obituary states.
RIP to 1973 @Brewers pitcher Rob Gardner who passed away last weekend at the age of 78. An 8 year @MLB veteran, Rob pitched for the Crew in his final big league season ending his career with a 4.45 ERA in 109 games. pic.twitter.com/7N9kLBiGsd
— The Brew Crew Review: Milwaukee Brewers Podcast (@brewcrewreview1) October 26, 2023
Following his retirement from baseball due to an elbow injury, Gardner joined the Binghamton Fire Department in New York, eventually transitioning from a firefighter to a paramedic. During his retirement, Gardner split his time between Binghamton and Florida, where he enjoyed playing golf. (RELATED: Former MLB Pitcher Jim Poole Dies At 57)
He is survived by his children, Amy Root and David Gardner, along with his three grandchildren, Olivia, Erin and Elliott Root.
Just last month, Baltimore Orioles legend Brooks Robinson died at the age of 86. The player earned the nickname “The Human Vacuum Cleaner” for his extraordinary defensive skills.