Poll results: Gardner should stay in lineup

Eighty percent of fans voted to keep Brett Gardner in the lineup despite a small slump that started post-All-Star break. He’s picked it up in the past couple of weeks, but isn’t near the .320 batting average he once held.

I actually voted with the minority on this poll. Austin Kearns and Marcus Thames could provide a solid platoon for left field, and I think putting a little extra  pressure on Gardner to perform might pay off.

We all saw what a little kick in the rear end did for Joba Chamberlain. Why not try something similar with Gardner?

He would still be valuable to the Yankees as a pinch-runner. Plus, it would freshen up his legs, as fatigue has slowed his stolen base rate.

Next poll: Should Cano hit cleanup when A-Rod returns?