CLEARWATER, Fla. – Pat Burrell's trip from the clubhouse to
Penthouse didn't go over well with the Philadelphia Phillies.
|  | | Pat Burrell is a hit for the Phillies on the field but not in Penthouse. |
In the April edition of the magazine, the Phillies' 24-year-old
bachelor discussed his sex life in detail in an interview that also
included his views on former President Clinton and religion.
Burrell, fourth in NL Rookie of the Year voting last year, also
talked about his crush on singer Britney Spears, how cheerleaders
would spice up baseball and that he "never, ever" wears
underwear.
He also discussed a visit to a strip joint and what would make
him run from a woman's bedroom.
Although the magazine hasn't hit newsstands near the Phillies'
training camp, a copy of the story already has reached the
clubhouse.
"Everybody's right to freedom of speech is protected, but I
don't think Pat used good judgment in this situation," general
manager Ed Wade said. "I'm disappointed and I hope he uses better
judgment in the future."
When told the interview was coming out, Burrell seemed excited.
When it became apparent that his bosses weren't happy, he carefully
chose his words.
"I didn't mean to offend anybody, I apologize," Burrell said.
"I had no intention to embarrass the organization, if that were to
have happened ... or to have embarrassed my teammates."
Burrell, who hit .260 with 18 homers and 79 RBI in 111 games
last year, did the interview a few months ago, after receiving a
phone call from Penthouse.
"I really didn't think about it," he said. "I just got the
call. Obviously there are some touchy issues."
The article included Burrell's feelings on cheerleaders in
baseball ("I don't think it would hurt and I know the players
would love it") and good conversations for a first date ("I don't
know what it is, but I've gotten into horoscopes.")
He also gave his views on religion and sports ("It's not for
me. I believe in God, but I don't think he is going to help me hit
a baseball") and his New Year's resolution ("It was to quit
chewing. I've had girls tell me to get that (stuff) out of my
mouth.")
Reactions among the players varied.
"I'm in shock," pitcher Paul Byrd said. "It's just
unbelievable."
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