Yesterday it was announced that former Red Sox manager Jimy Williams passed away at the age of 80. Williams had a short playing career with the Cardinals in the 1960's. He had his first stint as manager of the Blue Jays in the mid 1980's. Under him, the Blue Jays had a second place finish in 1987. After that, he was on Bobby Cox's coaching staff with the Braves before taking over the Red Sox managerial position in 1997, replacing Kevin Kennedy.
The Red Sox finished fourth in 1997, but Williams made one of his more noteworthy moves late in that season. Steve Avery was signed as a free agent prior to the season, but struggled greatly. Avery had a clause in his contract that if he made 18 starts, an option would vest for him to continue in Boston for the next season. Williams started Avery in a meaningless late-season game specifically in order for that option to vest. Avery won the game, so it worked out.
The next two seasons were much better for the team as the Red Sox won the Wild Card each season. In 1998, they lost to the Indians in the ALDS, but gained revenge the next season, winning a classic five-game series that culminated in Pedro Martinez's hitless relief stint. They could not capitalize on that momentum against the Yankees in the ALCS though. Williams won the A.L. Manager of the Year for his 94-68 season.
Unfortunately, the team declined in 2000 and nosedived in 2001 after injuries to Martinez, Nomar Garciaparra and Jason Varitek. Williams was fired after 118 games and replaced by Joe Kerrigan, who had no idea how to manage. Williams later managed the Astros.
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