The Yankees went through an overhaul in the 1995-96 offseason after the heartbreaking Division Series loss to Seattle. Most notably, GM Gene ‘Stick’ Michael was replaced with Bob Watson and manager Buck Showalter was replaced with Joe Torre. The latter was almost undone.
Even though the Yankees improved dramatically under Buck’s 4-year tenure managing and stormed to the postseason for the first time since 1981 with a 21-6 September record, it was not enough for George.
Showalter’s contract was set to expire at the end of October. Buck, under the impression he was negotiating, turned down a 2-year contract because he wanted 3-years (he had earned that much).