Reporters were conducting an interview with Reds manager Dusty Baker in his office before a game against the St. Louis Cardinals, when Phillips interrupted, confronting Rosecrans about the tweets. Phillips began shouting at Rosecrans, even cursing at him.
The tweets that angered Phillip were about his on-base percentage and his move from clean-up to second in the batting lineup. Rosecrans tweeted:
Reds go from a hitter with a .320 OBP in the 2 hole to one with a .310 OBP
— ctrent (@ctrent) August 28, 2013
Phillips career slash line: .272/.320/.430. career slash in 2 spot: .277/.320/.424
— ctrent (@ctrent) August 28, 2013
The argument between Rosecrans and Phillips was captured on videotape. Although the camera is fixed on Baker, who can be seen shaking his head saying, “I ain’t in this,” Phillips and Rosecrans can be heard in the background.
The Cincinnati Enquirer issued this statement following the confrontation:
“Phillips took exception to our analysis concerning his on-base percentage and a follow-up tweet after being moved into the second spot in the lineup. It is a fair subject to consider, and one our readers would expect us to address.
“While we are disappointed in Phillips’ reaction, we understand it is a pennant race and emotions are high during a crucial series with a heated rival. This isn’t the first time a player has lost his temper in response to a reporter’s questions and it won’t be the last. It is part of covering the team day-in day-out.”