Few voices are as authoritative about the transformative winters in New York baseball as Bernie Williams. Having graced Major League Baseball for 16 years, all with the Yankees, he boasts an impressive .297 career batting average, holds four Gold Gloves in centerfield, and was instrumental in securing four World Series titles for the team from 1996 to 2001.
On a recent Thursday, Bernie Williams shared his insights on the Yankees, Mets, and Juan Soto. This came during his interviews promoting Rare Disease Day, which takes a spotlight every February 28th. Since 2001, following the tragic loss of his father, Bernabe Sr., to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, Williams has passionately advocated for interstitial lung disease awareness.
Alongside his musical pursuits—having released two albums and toured extensively—Williams has collaborated with vocal coach Eric Vetro on an initiative called Tune In To Lung Health. This program harnesses music and breathing techniques to aid those battling rare lung diseases, providing support to both patients and their caregivers.
"It all stems from my love for music and the belief in its healing power," Williams explained. "Facing something as daunting as interstitial lung disease brings anxiety and myriad challenges. This affects not only the patients but also their caregivers who need to maintain a positive mindset."
For more information on Tune In To Lung Health, visit the program’s website.
Q: What was your reaction to Juan Soto’s move across town?
Bernie Williams: "I wasn’t exactly shocked, though not disappointed either. You can’t fault players for seeking better opportunities. It seemed like financial reasons played a role and, well, staying in New York is undeniably exciting for any athlete due to its sports market appeal. Although Soto had a good stint, aiming for a World Series win with a more promising team must have factored into his decision. The team he joins might benefit from his talents, and the management there could enhance their winning prospects. Ultimately, players need to prioritize their bodies and careers. With a relatively short professional lifespan, leaving no stone unturned is crucial."
"The kind of money players earn now could secure their families for generations (chuckles). Soto is clearly a top-tier player currently, and I hope his career aspirations are fulfilled, possibly with the Mets, as that’s where he seems to be heading (laughs)."
Q: How do you view the Yankees’ response moves?
Bernie Williams: "It’s a bit of a double-edged sword. The Yankees lost a key player, undeniably valuable in their journey to the World Series. Yet, by not signing him, they could invest in multiple players. The overall strength these players bring could outweigh having just one superstar. This approach offers the Yankees increased depth, something they might have lacked before. They played the hand they were dealt quite wisely, I believe."
Q: You were a homegrown prospect, just like the new starting outfielders Jasson Dominguez and Cody Bellinger. How do you feel about their potential?
Bernie Williams: "Eager to see Jasson have a full season to demonstrate his capabilities. Injuries have been unfortunate setbacks for him, but his potential is evident. As for Cody, I’ve watched him since youth, as Clay’s son, playing in the clubhouse. Little did we know he’d bloom into one of the game’s finest. Though his career has had its ups and downs, playing for his father’s team is a unique chance to make a significant impact. His left-handed power is reminiscent of Soto’s, and he might be the final puzzle piece needed."
Q: Does this fuel the Yankees-Mets rivalry further?
Bernie Williams: "It’s going to be a circus during the regular season (laughs). Having another Subway Series, like in 2000, would be quite a spectacle 25 years later. The Mets have reinforced themselves impressively, and with the Yankees’ additions, there’s a real possibility."
Q: Can you relate any of your free agency experiences to Pete Alonso’s situation?
Bernie Williams: "Timing comes into play significantly. Choosing to stay with the Yankees secured my legacy. Alonso’s situation is different since he hasn’t yet locked himself into a long-term deal with the Mets, granting him flexibility post-season. But being a homegrown player presents a special bond. Whether intentional or not, remaining with the Mets could allow Alonso to shine throughout his best years. With stars like Soto, Lindor, and himself, they’re offensively formidable. They have an owner, much like George Steinbrenner, willing to invest heavily in creating a competitive team."
Q: Thoughts on teams spending lavishly, as part of the infamous “Evil Empire”?
Bernie Williams: "(Laughs) I take that as a compliment! Building a star-studded roster is valuable on paper, but actual success requires playing those games. Winning is the ultimate leveler, smoothing over numerous rough edges. True team character emerges during adversity. Having seasoned veterans to guide through such times is invaluable. The Mets, with their mix of talent, are well-prepared for challenges ahead. It’ll be fascinating to see how their season unfolds."
Q: With Aaron Judge’s AL MVP win and Francisco Lindor’s near win in the NL, plus Soto in the NL now—what are the chances of New York sweeping this season’s MVP slots?
Bernie Williams: "The odds are pretty favorable. Soto’s ability to thrive in New York was in question, but he’s proven he can. Judge consistently delivers MVP-level seasons yearly, and should previous health concerns remain unproblematic, New York will host some of the game’s greatest players in history. It’s a thrilling era for the city."
Q: Can the Yankees finally break their title drought?
Bernie Williams: "It’s an intriguing scenario. This Yankees lineup has fought hard for that elusive World Series title. Sometimes, a single moment can shift a team’s destiny, more so in the postseason. The Yankees have both tasted success and faced adversity. They’re on the cusp of something great, and this could indeed be their year."
"Winning is an enormous challenge. Reflecting on my Yankees era, we made reaching the postseason and clinching four titles in five years seem effortless; it wasn’t (laughs). Many teams realize the difficulty in maintaining that caliber. Still, I’m optimistic the current team is poised for exceptional success.”
Q: Do you think the Yankees’ initial playoff success came partly from underestimating the expanded playoff hurdles?
Bernie Williams: "Absolutely. Sometimes, being unaware of daunting challenges is liberating (laughs). The Yankees culture, set by the likes of Steinbrenner, ingrained a relentless pursuit of success. Planning for the next year began right after a Championship. Instead of basking in past wins, our focus was on replicating them. This bred a postseason and championship-winning ethos. Emulating this today could reignite their past glory."
