The Los Angeles Angels Have Harsh Words for Josh Hamilton After Relapse
Josh Hamilton has battled a variety of demons in his life. The MLB ruled that he will not be suspended by the Los Angeles Angels, but the decision hasn't gone over well for some. The Angels are having big time buyer's remorse over the more than $80 million they are still on the hook for. They are creating an environment where it would be hard to welcome Hamilton back to the team, and maybe that is the point.
"It defies logic that Josh's reported behavior is not a violation of his drug program," Angels President John Carpino told The LA Times.
"The Angels have serious concerns about Josh's conduct, health and behavior," Angels General Manger Jerry Dipoto said to NBC Hardball Talk. "We are disappointed that he has broken an important commitment, which he made to himself, his family, his teammates, and our fans."
Some critics have speculated that the Angels had a hand in the original leaking of the Hamilton's latest relapse. However, a person with a high profile such as Hamilton, who has used his struggle with addiction as part of his narrative, has no reasonable expectation of privacy here. Him being signed to a high-profile contract with a high-profile team simply means parts of his life are not private are not any longer.
It seems more logical for the Angels to welcome Hamilton back with open arms, and be in his corner, or have his back, as they say. That way they could benefit from the remaining years and money on his deal. This situation has gotten pretty ugly and one has to wonder if the Angels will ever welcome Hamilton back home.
