Former Philadelphia Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon has always been known to voice his opinion.
Over the three-plus seasons while the six-time All-Star and 2007 World Series champion donned red pinstripes, Papelbon had a peculiar relationship with Phillies fans, and the team as a whole as time went on.
This trend continued Friday evening with his new club.
Papelbon, 34, and the Washington Nationals stood six 
games out of the National League East with 29 games left to play, entering the second game of four-game weekend series with the Atlanta Braves.
The Nationals topped the Braves in dramatic, extra-inning fashion, as rookie pinch-hitter Michael Taylor hit a walk-off, three-run home run, his 14th of the season.
Getting to extra innings alone was an exciting feat in it of itself for the Nationals. With two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning, they trailed 2-1 before left fielder Matt den Dekker tied the game with a RBI-single to center field.
Papelbon held the Braves' offense at check, throwing scoreless frames in the ninth and tenth innings on 27 pitches, 22 of which were strikes. He allowed two singles and struck out one batter, his 49th of the season over 53 2/3 innings.
Despite the impressive comeback and effective pitching of his own, Papelbon still showed displeasure at his postgame interview, taking a shot at the Nationals faithful:
"I got a bone to pick with some of the fans here tonight. I'm not gonna lie. We need to stand up in those situations. Let's get that going. Ya know what I mean? Because this is playoff baseball."
James Wagner of The Washington Post writes:
When the Nationals tied the game with two outs in the ninth, the crowd at Nationals Park cheered. The same in the 10th when Michael A. Taylor won the game with a pinch-hit three-run home run. But Papelbon wanted more fans on their feet and, presumably, cheering loudly. Players have noted on many occasions in the past how an energetic atmosphere at Nationals Park gives them an extra boost.
Papelbon was dealt to Washington on July 28, along with cash considerations, in exchange for minor league right hander Nick Pivetta.
The long-time, effective closer got his wish to be traded to a playoff contender. If he continues to berate Washington fans, however, he very well could be in search of a new club come the offseason.
Matt Rappa (@mattrappasports) is managing editor of Philliedelphia.com.
