text: 2010 Gardner began the 2010 season as the Yankees' starting left fielder, taking over after Johnny Damon left in free agency, he finished the season with a .277 batting average and 47 stolen bases in 150 games, and had the highest number of pitches per plate appearance in the major leagues (4.61). He also won the 2010 Fielding Bible Award as the best defensive left fielder in MLB.
  On December 7, 2010, Gardner underwent surgery to get rid of inflamed tissue in his wrist, with Yankees general manager Brian Cashman stating that he would be back in time for spring training.
  2011
  Gardner started the 2011 season hitting leadoff for the Yankees. He struggled in that role and was demoted to the bottom third of the order. However, after Jeter was put on the disabled list for a calf injury, Gardner was returned to the top of the order, alternating with Nick Swisher. After Jeter's return and Alex Rodriguez's stint on the disabled list for knee surgery, Gardner and Jeter periodically shared the top of the order, with Gardner at lead-off and Jeter batting second.
  Gardner finished the 2011 season tied for first in the American League in stolen bases with Coco Crisp, each having 49. Gardner won his second consecutive Fielding Bible Award as the best fielding left fielder in the MLB. Gardner played in 159 games, batting .259 with seven home runs and 36 RBI.