Josh Hamilton could have very little time left as a member of the Los Angeles Angels organization.
Sports Illustrated’s Michael McCann reports that it may only be a “matter of days” before the Angels part ways with Hamilton.
There has been conflicting information regarding Hamilton’s future with the team since he reportedly confessed to a drug relapse during a meeting with Major League Baseball earlier this year. One recent report indicated that he is expected to report to the Angels’ training complex in Arizona in the near future for extended spring training. That led to speculation that Hamilton could either be traded or rejoin the Angels at some point in June, but perhaps the team has found another solution.
Angels owner Arte Moreno has basically admitted that the team is looking for a way to void Hamilton’s contract. If there is language in Hamilton’s deal that prevents the use of drugs or alcohol, the Angels might have an argument. However, McCann is reporting that no language that would make it easy for the team to void the contract exists. The SI report digs deeper into some of the legal language that is typical with MLB contracts.
One solution would be the Angels and Hamilton reaching a mutual buyout agreement, which is rare but not unprecedented. You can read about two instances where teams reached a buyout agreement with players because of off-field issues here.
The Angels would likely have to pay a large portion of the $83 million remaining on Hamilton’s contract if a buyout agreement was reached.
Hamilton, who has now admitted to multiple relapses, filed for a divorce from his wife Katie back in February, which was around the same time his most recent relapse occurred. He is currently rehabbing after having offseason shoulder surgery.
