Outfielder Josh Hamilton‘s future with the Los Angeles Angels is very much in question, but the two sides are in talks to reach some type of resolution.
Continue for updates.
Trade, Buyout Potentially on the Table
Saturday, April 18
Despite having yet to play a game in 2015, Hamilton has dominated headlines since it was revealed that he had a substance-abuse relapse during the offseason. Shortly around that time, Hamilton also filed for divorce from his wife, Katie, according to Naheed Rajwani of The Dallas Morning News.
The 33-year-old slugger was not disciplined by Major League Baseball, but he is out as he continues to recover from a shoulder injury. Even when Hamilton is ready to play, though, the Angels may not welcome him back.
According to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports, Los Angeles is looking into trading him:
That could be difficult due to Hamilton’s bloated contract, which is why buying him out is also a potential option, albeit a somewhat unlikely one:
Hamilton’s play dropped off last year, as he hit just .263 with 10 home runs and 44 RBI while missing nearly half the season, but the biggest concern may relate to his off-field issues.
With that said, Angels pitcher C.J. Wilson is confident Hamilton has moved past the relapse, per ESPN.com.
“I feel like he’s in a good place and he’s doing the right things,” Wilson said. “He’s going through the counseling stuff that’s good for him. I feel like he’s ready to go in that regard.”
There is no question that Hamilton’s lefty bat is a huge addition to the Angels lineup when he is healthy and playing up to his potential.
The organization seems to be hesitant to bring him back, though, which means it is possible Hamilton has played his last game for the Angels.
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