Tsk, Tsk, Tsk, Jonathan

Jonathan Papelbon, you just don't get it do you?

When asked, during his All-Star press conference, whether he or Mariano Rivera should get the nod to close out the ninth:

"If I was managing the team, I would close. I'm not managing the team, so it don't matter. [Mariano Rivera and I have] both earned that right; us, by winning the World Series and having the opportunity of having our manager there and our team being represented, and Mariano by what he's done for this role, we're in Yankee Stadium and blah, blah, blah. It's not that easy. Everybody thinks it's a cut and dry answer, but it's not."

Oh...my...lord.

I could embark on a rant about Papelbon's arrogance and ignorance, but I'll refrain. I'll let his own remarks speak for themselves, because eventually it is his remarks that will make him one of the most reviled players in the game.

Good luck tonight, Paps.

UPDATE: Jonathan appeared in the 8th inning and was absolutely pummeled by the Yankee Stadium crowd. Chants of "Mariano!" and "Overrated!" echoed through The House and -- whaddyaknow? -- Papelbon surrendered the go-ahead run. Ah, satisfaction.

Buck and McCarver were, shockingly, indignant about the reaction that Paps' comments received from the media and the crowd, insisting that the closer is immensely respectful of Mariano Rivera. (He's not.)

McCarver "highlight": During the "Overrated!" chant, Papelbon struck out Dan Uggla, prompting the drawler to snidely remark, "To those who think he's overrated, Papelbon says, 'Grab a bat.'" Wait, you mean Jonathan Papelbon would actually strike out Vinny from Brooklyn if they were to face off? Daring prognostication, Tim. You're right. I have vastly underestimated this young whippersnapper of a closer.
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