According to a report in the New York Times, Williams turned down the Yankees' offer of a Minor League contract and invitation to spring training.

The five-time All-Star instead said he will stay in shape, spend time with his family and wait to see if the Yankees change their minds and offer him a guaranteed roster spot.

"I think if they wanted me, they would have signed me already," Williams told reporters at a benefit in Connecticut on Friday night. "The option to go to spring training and see what happened -- I don't think at this moment it is something I want to consider."

Williams, who has been with the Yankees since 1991, has made no secret of his desire to remain in the Bronx. But with the team's plan to go with 12 pitchers, form a platoon at first base and move Jason Giambi to designated hitter, there is no spot on the 25-man roster for the 38-year-old Williams.

"We love and respect Bernie, but with the dynamic of our roster, there's not a spot," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman told the newspaper. "We had a lot of conversations with him. I understand that he doesn't want to accept a minor league deal."

Williams filled in capably last season when left fielder Hideki Matsui and right fielder Gary Sheffield were injured, batting .281 with 12 home runs and 61 RBIs.

"As it is right now, it doesn't seem like I am going to be playing with that team this year," Williams told the Post. "It is just part of the game. It is what makes this interesting."