Showalter critical of Jeter, Epstein in interview

[March 25, 2011]  SARASOTA, Fla. (AP) -- Baltimore Orioles manager Buck Showalter is critical of Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter and Boston Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein in a magazine interview.

In the April edition of Men's Journal, Showalter recalls the Yankees being surprised that he yelled at Jeter.

Showalter said Jeter is "always jumping back from balls just off the plate. I know how many calls that team gets." Showalter said Jeter's actions bother him.

Showalter also said: "I'd like to see how smart Theo Epstein is with the Tampa Bay payroll," implying Epstein's job is made easier by Boston's "$205 million payroll."

Asked Thursday about his comments, Showalter said he didn't mean to be insulting and acknowledged "maybe it is envy or something on my part."

Showalter took over the Orioles late last season. Baltimore beat Pittsburgh 11-7 in an exhibition game Thursday night.

[Associated Press]

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