An arbitrator recently ruled that Angels outfielder Josh Hamilton would not be punished for a drug relapse. That decision didn’t sit well with the Angels’ brass, as GM Jerry DiPoto released a rather curious statement critical of Hamilton.
The drama continues. When asked if he can say Hamilton will play again for the Angels, owner Arte Moreno responded, “I will not say that,” Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times reports. Moreno says the Angels have language in Hamilton’s contract regarding a drug relapse and the club may try to enforce it.
Hamilton, 33, is in the third year of a five-year, $125 million contract. He is owed $83 million for the 2015-17 seasons. If Hamilton had been suspended by Major League Baseball for his drug relapse, the Angels would have had relief from some of his $23 million salary for this season.