Charleston, S.C. -- Former Cougar standout Brett Gardner has been called up to the New York Yankees and will be with the team today when they host the Texas Rangers at Yankee Stadium at 7:05.

The left-handed hitter was playing center field in the minor leagues, but can play all three outfield positions.

“It really hasn’t set in yet,” Gardner told Times and Democrat reporter Brian Linder on Sunday.  “Absolutely, it’s a dream come true. Growing up as a little kid, you get older, and you realize how far away it is. It really hasn’t set in yet, but I think (Monday) when I get there it will definitely happen.

“Before the season started I told myself, ?If it happens it happens,’”.  “I just worry about what I can control and try to prove to them that I am ready. And, with this happening in the last year of Yankees Stadium -- it’s very special to get to play there.”
 
Gardner, 24, was the Yankees' third round pick in 2005 after hitting .447 with the Cougars and leading the nation with 122 hits in 2005.  He helped the Cougars to a 27-3 league mark and a 48-15 record in 2005.  The Cougars won the 2005 SoCon regular season title and participated in the Clemson Regional.
 
Gardner played for the Cougars from 2002 through 2005.  He posted a .368 career average over 217 games with eight homers, 141 RBI and 97 career stolen bases.  He was batting .287 with a .412 on base percentage, three homers, 29 RBI and 34 stolen bases for Scranton-Wilkes Barre, the Yankees' AAA affiliate.
 
Gardner becomes the first Cougar to earn a spot on a Major League roster since right-handed pitcher Jason Gilfillan pitched for the Kansas City Royals in 2003.  Gilfillan was 2-0 in 13 appearances for the Royals out of the bullpen.