Bernie’s ‘World’ team smoked in All-Star Futures Game

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Bernie Williams’ first experience as a manager was bitter, to say the least. The former Yankees center fielder was the skipper for the World Team in the All-Star Futures Games Sunday at Kauffman Stadium that blew a 4-0 lead and got slammed, 17-5, by the U.S. Team that was managed by Hall of Fame third baseman and Kansas City icon George Brett.

Typical of Brett, who haunted the Yankees throughout his career in the 1970s, ‘80s and ‘90s, he stepped it up against an opponent who played his entire career for the Yankees.

“I wanted us to step on their throats,” Brett said, “and we did.”

Brett has his tongue wedged deeply in his cheek but couldn’t help being excited about winning a game in the city where he played his whole career for a Royals team which he still serves as a special adviser.

As for Williams, well, he would just as soon get back to his guitar, although he does not rule out the possibility of managing in the future.

“It is something that I might consider because it is a great mental challenge,” he said. “It is kind of intriguing at this point for me.”