NOTES
Bernie Williams’ game-winning home run in the 10th inning of Game 1 Wednesday was extra difficult for the Red Sox to swallow, considering Williams could have been rounding the bases in their uniform.
Last winter, as a free agent, Williams held serious discussions with the Red Sox about signing there.
He flew to Atlanta for a meeting with Manager Jimy Williams. They offered him $91 million,$30 million more than he was offered at the time by the Yankees.
Williams thought about it. He nearly did it.
“It was very close,” he said.
But he told the Red Sox he needed to make one more call.
He phoned George Steinbrenner.
He told the Yankee owner how much he wanted to remain in the organization that has become his family.
Steinbrenner, who had actually pursued Albert Belle in the interim, was convinced.
He offered Williams $87.5 million, and the center fielder stayed.
“It’s over, and I’m glad I’m here,” Williams said, not needing to note that the Red Sox had lost again.
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