Yeah, Pedro is too smart to ever say "I didn't hit them on purpose," it helps put some fear in the minds of the hitters. And, while I'm sure he hit plenty of people on purpose before, the wrists of Jeter/Soriano in that game I truly don't think were intentional. He was throwing inside to get them out and it's their fault if they don't get out of the way.
Venture is a lot different. He isn't showing swagger, he's showing he's an idiot and an asshole. He started a fight his last start against the A's too. They need to suspend him. He's not responding to issues on the field, he's picking fights with everyone he encounters.