Major League Baseball is throwing its support behind the Los Angeles Angels in its latest dispute involving the players' union and outfielder Josh Hamilton.
Hamilton, who won't be suspended for his substance-abuse relapse after an arbitrator ruled in his favor earlier this month, could be in line for more legal drama if the Angels attempt to void at least some of the $83 million he's due over the next three seasons.
MLB chief legal officer Dan Halem indicated to the Los Angeles Times on Wednesday that the Angels would be within their rights to pursue action against the embattled outfielder, particularly if owner Arte Moreno wrote provisions into the contract Hamilton signed with the club in 2012.
"We obviously have a different view than the players' association regarding the club's rights under these circumstances," Halem told the Times' Bill Shaikin.
Last week, hours after Moreno said he might try to recoup money owed to Hamilton because of his most recent troubles, the union fired back, saying provisions of baseball's drug policy prevent clubs from taking such action against a player's contract.
Hamilton's $23-million salary for 2015 became fully guaranteed on Opening Day, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, but sources tell the Times that Moreno could still try and challenge the remaining $60 million based on language included in his original deal.
From the Times:
Two people familiar with Hamilton's contract say it contains at least three provisions Moreno could use to pursue his case, including one that would enable the club to void the deal if Hamilton could not perform because he had engaged in "dangerous activities" that include drug and alcohol abuse. The Angels also could cite a provision that would allow the club to walk away if it determined Hamilton was not in "first-class condition" because of substance abuse.
Hamilton is currently rehabbing his surgically-repaired shoulder and isn't expected back until late May at the earliest.