Phillies Manager Assaults Reporter

In a confrontation in his office, Philadelphia manager Charlie Manuel blew up at radio host and long-time Manuel goad Howard Eskin and threatend to take him down. Later, in the Phillies clubhouse, two coaches physically restrained Manuel from making good on his threat.  Eskin had enraged the manager by suggesting he inspire his lackluster team with a verbal tirade.

Manuel interpreted Eskin's remarks as criticism of his manhood.  The manager acknowledged, too, that he was aware of Eskin's track record of bashing him.  "His problem shouldn't be with me," suggested Eskin.  "It should be with the players that are ultimately going to get him fired." (More Charlie Manuel stories.)