"For a player who seemingly has been a favorite target of opposing pitchers, the Diamondbacks' Justin Upton has exhibited a level of restraint that manager Kirk Gibson appreciates. Gibson said it's a sign of his right fielder's maturity, but he also wonders what could occur if the plunkings continue.

Upton was drilled on the back in Monday's game and went to the ground in pain. It was the 15th time he has been hit by a pitch this season, one fewer than National League leader Danny Espinoza of the Nationals.

"He doesn't like it. If it keeps happening, at some point, I mean what am I going to tell him?" Gibson said. "I can tell you if it was me, I couldn't guarantee what I would do at some point. I'm not promoting any kind of confrontation at all, trust me, but we've probably all lost our composure, our temper, at a time in our life.

"I hope it doesn't happen. He's a very strong kid, I'd hate to see him lose his mind and take matters in his own hands. Hopefully we're beyond that.""