MLB.com

By Rich Draper / MLB.com

Catcher A.J. Pierzynski was aquired from the Twins. (Marcio Jose Sanchez/AP)

In an Oakland Tribune article, some pitchers were quoted as saying they weren't happy with the new backstop, that he was a "cancer on the team," an "abrasive presence" and that they didn't respect Pierzynski.

Further, the players reportedly said they wouldn't mind the catcher being traded to another team and that he ignored pitcher Brett Tomko's request to go over the hitters before one game, instead finishing a game of cards before complying.

Much to do about nothing? Overblown?

"We [Pierzynski and his teammates] talked about it, got a lot of things out in the open -- I'm not going to tell you what we talked about; it's none of your business to be honest about it -- and if we were winning it wouldn't be an issue," Pierzynski said.

"They said some of the quotes they say were taken out of context or off the record," he added. "I think we came together as a team and it was good to get things out in the open and taken care of before it turns into a bigger issue than it already is."

Pierzynski, a 27-year-old acquired from Minnesota in the offseason, said if the controversy "gets us together as a team and more focused, that's fine," saying his teammates were supporting him.

"They are behind me and believe in me," said Pierzynski. "I take their word over a reporter's."

Manager Felipe Alou said he looked at the opening paragraph of the newspaper story, noted the team sources were anonymous and didn't read any more.

"I stopped there because I don't believe it was worth continuing," Alou said. "You talk to me about anonymous and I don't have a conversation with you. It's not healthy [what was said] but I think the guys are addressing that."

Relief pitcher Matt Herges said it was not a topic that helps the Giants, who have struggled in April.

"It's a team issue and we want it gone," Herges said. "We don't want to dwell on it."

Bullpenner Jim Brower said he heard Pierzynski had a certain reputation with Minnesota as a chatterbox and outgoing player but decided to see for himself when the catcher joined the club. He has seen no problems.

"We're all professionals and we go out and win together," Brower said. "We're right on the edge to go on a tear. Communication is a good thing."

Pierzynski said he is a new guy and "an easy target" because he is a new guy and replaced the popular catcher Benito Santiago. "There was also stuff written about me in Minnesota," Pierzynksi said.

Rich Draper is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

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