Former MLB pitcher and current NESN analyst Jonathan Papelbon has unleashed a scathing critique aimed at ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith, labeling him as “racist,” “xenophobic,” and a “fake person” following Smith’s contentious remarks about Angels star Mike Trout’s injury.
Papelbon’s criticism comes in response to Smith’s recent comments on “First Take,” where the outspoken pundit drew ire for his remarks regarding Trout’s meniscus tear. Papelbon didn’t mince words, condemning Smith’s commentary and accusing him of lacking accountability for his words.
In an interview on “Foul Territory,” Papelbon escalated the feud by recalling his past interactions with Smith during his time with the Philadelphia Phillies. Papelbon alleged that Smith was banned from the Phillies clubhouse due to unprofessional behavior, including allegedly snooping through sensitive areas like the manager’s office and the trainer’s room.
Jonathan Papelbon blasts ‘racist’ Stephen A. Smith over Mike Trout injury dig https://t.co/7zKVtPRxIz pic.twitter.com/owWbghfrmd
— New York Post (@nypost) May 3, 2024
Expressing disdain for Smith’s journalistic integrity, Papelbon derided him as a “complete joke” and questioned his credibility as a media personality. He urged ESPN to take action against Smith, suggesting that the network should consider terminating his employment or reducing his pay as a consequence of his divisive rhetoric.
Furthermore, Papelbon characterized Smith as “more narcissistic than Donald Trump,” lambasting him as one of the most self-absorbed individuals in the media landscape. He challenged ESPN to address Smith’s behavior and emphasized the detrimental impact of his inflammatory remarks on public discourse.
In the wake of Papelbon’s rebuke, the spotlight remains on ESPN’s response to Smith’s controversial remarks and the broader implications for the future of sports commentary. Whether ESPN will heed Papelbon’s call for action or continue to stand by Smith amidst mounting criticism remains to be seen.
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