Reds fans are a bit fussy today. In an interview with Cincinnati Magazine, Brandon Phillips said a lot of funny things and a couple of controversial things.

Phillips on his contract extension:

“I just feel like they didn’t have to sign Joey to that contract. He still had two more years on his,” says Phillips. “And for [the front office] to go out there and sign him before they sign me, and they knew I was going to be a free agent?” Phillips shakes his head. “I understand Joey’s a good player. He’s one of the best players in this game. But I feel like I am too. I told them that this is where I wanted to be. I begged them. I told everybody I want to finish my career here. And then they give someone a contract who didn’t ask for nothing?”

Phillips is right: The front office put Votto before Phillips. Castellini and co. didn’t have to extend Votto when they did and I can’t blame Phillips for having a bit of a chip on his shoulder.

On the other side of the coin, I can’t blame the front office for extending Votto first. Why wouldn’t a team extend the better and younger player first?

I can’t imagine that the interview will cause disruption in the Reds’ clubhouse. I’m sure he expressed his contract concerns last year and I’m sure he’s joked with Votto about ‘not having a personality.’

Go read the piece. For every one of Phillips’ controversial quotations, he’s got 10 that will make you love him.

UPDATE

Phillips’ reaction today: ‘What did I say wrong?’

Votto’s reaction today: ‘Brandon’s reaction was totally human.’