Yes we know its early but he’s a lock.  ESPN is reporting that Padres outfilder, Milton Bradley’s MRI revealed a torn ACL.  Those of you who are reading this are probably assuming he must have hurt his knee running the bases, chasing a fly ball nope!  MLB’s resident hothead melted down again.  While on first base in Sunday’s 7-3 loss to Colorado, Bradley began jawing at first base umpire, Mike Winters.  Eventually the exchange became so heated that.  He called time out to comfront Winters at which point he was promptly ejected. 

Bradley then hurt his knee during a bizarre scene when manager Bud Black spun him to the ground to keep him from going after Winters.  We’ve seen Bradley melt several times before and has been the sole reason for his journeyman status despite his undeniable talent however this incident will likely cost him remainder of this year and likely the start of 2008 not to mention the Padres chances at a post-season birth.  This is the final week of the season and the team is clinging to a 1/2 game lead in the Wildcard.

I’ll say this in his defense…after watching the incident, the post-game interview and the Bobby Meechum, the Padres’ first base coach’s account of the story it appears that the umpire, Mike Winters, insighted the incident and had an ax to grind.  That said.  You must display some tact, patience and awareness.  YOU’RE IN A HEATED PENNANT RACE.  Choose another way to do it.  It is unfortunat however because it seems that Winters may have said some very harsh and boarderline prejudice comments.  That aside you win the Asshole award Milton.  Congrats.

Watch Meltdown Video Here.