Josh Hamilton has no hard feelings about the Texas Rangers reported signing of Ian Desmond to play left field, a position that was supposed to be his in 2016.
In fact, the recovering slugger thinks the Rangers did what was best for the club and likes the addition of the 30-year-old Desmond, despite the fact his playing time may be affected upon his return from a knee injury.
"I talked with Jon Daniels, Thad Levine, and Jeff Banister this morning and they told me they wanted to have more depth," Hamilton told Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News. "I agreed with them 100 percent. Last year, I told (Banister) that there are 25 guys who love each other and work together in this clubhouse and want what is best for this team. I'm one of those guys.
"I told them I thought it would be a great addition."
The Rangers reportedly signed Desmond to a one-year, $8-million deal Sunday, adding a player who's spent his entire career at shortstop into the mix to play left field.
After Texas announced Hamilton was expected to miss the first month of the season as he recovers, his vacancy had to be filled. Although Desmond isn't a perfect fit, the club is adding another offensive force to their already potent lineup on a bargain.
As for Hamilton, the slugger is focusing on his recovery for the time being, and believes if he can stay healthy, playing time will come his way upon his return.
"I can't worry about anything other than doing this right and getting back on the field," Hamilton explained. "I want to get to a point where I can help the team.
"If you are healthy and hitting, you are going to play. That's just a fact of baseball. If I'm healthy and hitting, I will play. If Desmond is healthy and hitting, he is going to play. However, it works, I'm good with it."