Top Floor Trouble For Burrell

Pat Burrell's trip from the clubhouse to Penthouse didn't go over well with the Philadelphia Phillies.

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 RBIs 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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