Brett Gardner named as All-Star Game replacement for injured Alex Gordon

New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner will become an All-Star for the first time in his eight-year MLB career, replacing the injured Alex Gordon on the American League roster.

Brett Gardner is an MLB All-Star for the first time in his eight-year career. The Yankees outfielder will replace the Kansas City Royals' Alex Gordon on the American League roster in next Tuesday's Midsummer Classic.

The Yankees announced Gardner's selection during the fourth inning of the team's game Thursday, according to the Associated Press. Gardner, 31, is batting .298 with 10 home runs, 40 RBIs and 15 stolen bases in 79 games, and a career-high .856 OPS. He was originally one of the five American League players nominated for the All-Star Game's Final Vote, to determine who received the last spot on the team.

Gordon injured his groin Wednesday night while chasing down a fly ball during Kansas City's game against Tampa Bay. He is expected to miss eight weeks with the injury. Gordon, who also missed last year's All-Star Game due to injury, was batting .279 and was second on the Royals with 11 home runs. He was voted in as the AL's starting leftfielder by the fans. Adam Jones of the Baltimore Orioles will take his place on the lineup card Tuesday.

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The 31-year-old Gardner was drafted by the Yankees in 2005 and has played for the franchise his entire career. He joins teammates Mark Teixeira and Dellin Betances on the AL roster.