Josh Hamilton facing MLB discipline after reported relapse involving cocaine, alcohol
Los Angeles Angels outfielder Josh Hamilton met with MLB officials Wednesday regarding a disciplinary issue after reportedly suffering an alcohol and cocaine relapse.
The Angels confirmed the meeting took place at the commissioner's office in New York, according to MLB.com. Hamilton's father-in-law Michael Chadwick told Newsday the player has "hit a bump in the road, keep him in your prayers."
Sources tell the New York Daily News that Wednesday's meeting was prompted by a relapse on the part of Hamilton, whose struggles with substance abuse are well-chronicled.
Related: Angels' Wilson on Hamilton: 'You're just looking out for him as a person first'
The former top prospect served a three-year suspension from 2004-06 for issues relating to alcohol and crack cocaine addiction, then returned to become one of the game's premier players. He experienced two relapses involving alcohol in 2009 and 2012.
Hamilton's re-entry into baseball was dependent on several conditions, which the Daily News reports could be used against him if he did in fact suffer a relapse:
The conditions of his reinstatement include three weekly drug tests. He is also required to travel with an "accountability partner" whose job is to help Hamilton avoid drugs and alcohol.
According to the agreement Hamilton made during his minor-league suspension, his violations can be taken into account in any discipline he might receive from MLB.
Hamilton, who is currently rehabbing from shoulder surgery at his friend's ranch in Houston, is expected to be out until at least May. The Angels are said to be bracing for the possibility his return is delayed even longer if MLB chooses to suspend the former AL MVP.
"We're going to take one step at a time," Angels manager Mike Scioscia said Thursday. "There is no sense in getting too far out in front because information is still evolving."
Among those speaking out about Hamilton's latest setback is close friend Roy Silver, who told Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports that the five-time All-Star struggled last season with his previous indiscretions.
"People don't understand that this hasn't been easy for him, I knew something was not right for the last couple of months," Silver said, noting the pair haven't spoken since December.
Silver added: "He talked about that he was having trouble getting up for games. I don't know whether it was a self-realization or depression."
The Angels, who owe Hamilton more than $89 million over the next three seasons, wouldn't be responsible for paying the slugger during a suspension.