Brett's return to Royals dugout surprises Gardenhire

KANSAS CITY -- Count Twins manager Ron Gardenhire among those surprised by Hall of Famer George Brett's decision to put on the uniform again as interim hitting coach for the Royals.

While the Twins relaxed in their clubhouse before batting practice Tuesday, Brett held a press conference down the hallway at Kauffman Stadium prior to his first home appearance in the new role.

"To have a guy of his stature, a Hall of Famer, want to go down there and see if he can help some people ... that's pretty cool," Gardenhire said.

Gardenhire played five seasons in the National League with the Mets and didn't cross paths with Brett, who spent his the entirety of his 21-year career with the Royals.

"I cheered him on from afar," Gardenhire said. "I always loved the way he played."