KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Bernie Williams got his first real taste of managing yesterday in the Futures Game. His World team took it on the chin, 17-5.
Williams is a busy man with his music, but could managing or coaching be in his future? Does the former Yankees star center fielder feel drawn to return to the game in that way?
“I don’t know,’’ Williams said, then in typical Bernie fashion added, “I think it is something that I, maybe possibly in the future, could consider possibly of doing because it’s a great mental challenge. It’s something that is kind of intriguing at this point for me.’’
Williams laughed and said, “I can see the headlines now: ‘He wants to manage.’
He added with a smile, “I was well-trained in the art of saying nothing by saying a lot.’’
* Infielder Wilmer Flores, who was 0-for-2 yesterday for the World team, knows his big league future may not be as a Met.
“I wish I knew what to tell you,” he said. “I don’t know at this point, I just want to play in the big leagues. I don’t care where I play — outfield, third base — and get my four at-bats a game. I would love to play in New York because it’s New York, but if it’s in Kansas City, if it’s in Los Angeles, I just want to play.’’
Flores is making the switch from shortstop to third. He also has played second.
“It’s hard,’’ he said. “I’ve been playing shortstop for the last four years. I’m feeling good out there, but it’s been hard.”
Since being promoted to Double-A Binghamton, the 20-year-old Flores is hitting .390 over 16 games.
“I feel good at the plate,’’ he said. “I have a plan in what I am doing. I’m being patient.’’
* Yankees outfield prospect Tyler Austin did not attend because he is recovering from a concussion. The Yankees did not have a player in the game.
* A Mets contingent is here to gather information for hosting next year’s All-Star Game at Citi Field.