From the command line:
MC12.exe /Close
There are LOTS of MC12.exe commands to help with home automation, including a discrete PAUSE command.
My HomeVision home automation controller system issues lots of MC12.exe commands to MediaCenter.
Everyone uses ratings differently, when I rate something 1, it means I don't like it, I don't want to hear it, and after review, I'll delete it.
I have a button on my IR/RF and x10 remotes around the house that when pressed, will change the rating of the currently playing track to 1 and then advance to the next track. Works great from the x10 remote in my shower....