Stephen A. Smith has vehemently refuted Jonathan Papelbon's allegations of racism and xenophobia, challenging the former pitcher's credibility and accusing him of being irresponsible and desperate.
The ongoing feud between Stephen A. Smith and Jonathan Papelbon has escalated with Smith forcefully responding to Papelbon's incendiary accusations. Papelbon, the former Boston Red Sox closer, had labeled Smith as "racist" and "xenophobic" after Smith criticized Mike Trout's availability due to injuries.
In his podcast episode released on Friday, Smith strongly objected to Papelbon's claims, emphasizing his lack of personal bias. "I think that when people bring up the word 'racist,' if they looked at you and I sitting together, I think they would look at you before they looked at me," Smith stated.
He further emphasized, "I'm a Black man. We have a history of experiencing racism. And a lot of times, those experiences come courtesy of people who look like you. And I would never think to call you a racist."
Smith challenged Papelbon's credibility, stating that he had never been banned from any sports locker room, as alleged by Papelbon. "I have never had any discipline action exacted against me. Because I have never been professionally unethical in my career. That is a lie. Now, I could sue your a-- for telling such a lie like that," Smith said.
Moreover, Smith questioned Papelbon's motives, suggesting that the former pitcher was seeking attention to compensate for his diminished playing career. "What you said is wrong, irresponsible, it's petty. And if it was to get a reaction, it's desperate. Because now that you don't have your playing career to lean on anymore, I guess you need help in other areas… be a grown up, bro," Smith retorted.
Smith also addressed the statistic that Trout has played in fewer games in recent seasons due to injuries. He acknowledged that Trout had played in just 82 games last year, 119 in 2022, and 36 in 2021, raising concerns about the impact on his legacy. "He hasn't played in over 140 games since 2016 (but still won an MVP in 2019)," Smith noted.
In conclusion, Stephen A. Smith has forcefully rebutted Jonathan Papelbon's accusations, refuting the claims of racism and xenophobia. He has also challenged Papelbon's credibility and accused him of being irresponsible and desperate. The feud between the two sports personalities is likely to continue, further fueling the ongoing debate about injuries and availability in professional sports.
