Top > Sport > 2007 > February > 2007-02-18

Bernie Williams Says No to Minor League

Bernie Williams, 38, the switch hitter, outfielder, New York Yankee has had a rough season last year. The five-time All Star has played his entire career, since 1991, with the Yankees, setting records such as 22 post-season home runs and runs batted in, with 80. But with a wrist injury last year and management disappointed with the club not winning World Series titles even though sporting the highest payroll in professional sports, the free agent?s future is uncertain.

As things look now, Bernie Williams will not take part in spring training with the Yankees. He has refused, according to reports, an offer for a minor league contract, instead wishing to play with the major league team. ?The option to go to spring training and see what happened -- I don`t think at this moment it is something I want to consider,? Williams said of the contract he was offered.

The team is expected to undergo considerable changes next year, with a stronger and bigger bullpen and position players shifting, placing Jason Giambi as designated hitter, a role Williams has mostly been filling until now. Of this said the Yankees general manager ?We love and respect Bernie, but with the dynamic of our roster, there`s not a spot.? Will Williams opt to spend time with his family, concentrate on his jazz guitar music career or seek playing time with other clubs remains to be seen. But as Spring nears, ?it doesn`t seem like I am going to be playing with that team this year," Williams said.