Seems like there’s a standing ovation for Bernie Williams every day there’s a game at Yankee Stadium. The 2006 season is his “Farewell Tour” and he’s been given Paul O’Neill-like royal treatment by the fans. That’s a good thing because Bernie has been a classy Yankee his entire career – not only to his teammates, but also to the media and fans. “There’s something about Bernie – a certain innocence that people love,” Joe Torre said before Saturday’s game against Oakland, in which Williams was moved up to No. 5 in the batting order. “There’s a certain elegance to his game. He’s more of an artist than a baseball player.”
Torre said he’s gotten angry at Williams a few times for a mental error or two but noted, “With him, you turn those hands around his neck into a hug. I’ve got as close a relationship with him as any player I’ve had.” Considering the close relationship Torre has had with so many players in his 11 years as Yankees manager, that’s really saying something.