the local media regularly rips him. He’s the subject of unrelenting criticism on talk radio in Tampa for no good reason. He’s grouped with Dukes and Delmon, because of circumstance when he’s always been regarded as a leader throughout his minor league career.

And other players, specifically CC is untouchable when he does very little better than Upton. He has refused to play CF when he could have helped us a lot there while Delmon and Dukes, who aren’t good corner outfielders were running out there last year. This year he played one game there, complained that he was “blindsided” by being put there. Jogged and ultimately cost us the game and then said the reason he pulled his hamstring (which he pulled that game) was because he was out of position. Not to mention he whined to the media about hitting 6th when he hadn’t played in a month to start the playoffs.

While he’s struggled defensively on the infield, Upton has been willing to play anywhere to help the team. Never publicly complained about being hurt (didn’t tell any media member he had a torn labrum despite being criticized about his lack of power) or complained about moving positions.