Bernie Williams and the New York Yankees gave up for now on their attempt to negotiate a multiyear contract, agreeing Wednesday to a one-year deal worth $5.25 million.
Williams, the MVP of last season’s AL championship series, had been seeking a two-year deal for about $13 million. He is eligible for free agency following the 1998 season, and says he would agree to a long-term deal only if it runs through 2003.
“To get a commitment long-term, it’s going to take a substantial offer,” said Williams’ agent, Scott Boras. “Two or three or four won’t be something he’s interested in. He either wants to make New York his long-term home or take it year by year.”
The 28-year-old outfielder had beaten the Yankees in arbitration last winter, getting a raise from $400,000 to $3 million. New York had offered $2,555,000.
Williams hit .305 in 1996 and established career highs with 29 homers, 102 RBIs and 108 runs.
Two New York Mets pitchers also agreed to deals: reliever Greg McMichael got a two-year contract worth $3,275,000 and starter Bobby Jones received a one-year deal for $1,925,000.
In the first case of a year likely to set a record for fewest salary-arbitration hearings, Kansas City outfielder Tom Goodwin asked arbitrator Theodore High for a raise from $312,500 to $1,795,000. The Royals offered $1.05 million to Goodwin, who hit .282 with 66 steals last year.
