Angels await word from MLB after Josh Hamilton’s reported cocaine, alcohol relapse

Angels outfielder Josh Hamilton

A second outlet has confirmed that outfielder Josh Hamilton’s meeting with Major League Baseball officials in New York on Wednesday reportedly involved the player’s relapse into cocaine and alcohol abuse.

Now, the 33-year-old slugger and the Angels await a possible suspension. The Los Angeles Times reported Wednesday the Angels are “bracing for possible penalties.”

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UPDATE: Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal and Jon Paul Morosi reported early Friday that MLB is looking to suspend Hamilton for at least 25 games but not the entire season.

The New York Daily News on Thursday said a source had confirmed the drug relapse, echoing a report by CBSSports.com on Wednesday which said Hamilton had admitted to MLB officials he went on a “binge” that involved cocaine a couple of months ago. The 2010 AL MVP has endured much-publicized substance abuse incidents in his past. The No. 1 overall pick in the 1999 amateur draft was suspended from baseball from 2003-05 for substance abuse issues while in the minor leagues.

Hamilton, who underwent surgery on his right shoulder Feb. 4, had not been expected to play until at least May as he rehabilitates the shoulder.

Although Hamilton could technically be considered a first-time offender under MLB’s drug policy, since his previous incidents occurred years ago in the minor leagues, his situation is unique. First-time offenders are subject to drug abuse counseling, and subjected to increased testing standards. But Hamilton is already reportedly tested several times a week because of his past history.

The troubled slugger signed a five-year, $125 million contract with the Angels before the 2013 season after hitting 43 home runs and driving in 128 runs for the Rangers in 2012. Since inking that deal, Hamilton has only 31 home runs and 123 RBIs in two seasons.

Roy Silver, a close friend of Hamilton's told USA Today on Thursday that if Hamilton has relapsed, he should consider retirement.

"He needs to get his life back in order," Silver said. "Even three years ago, I told Josh that you might want to consider retirement.

"It seems like he's struggling with things. When you've been given three, four and five chances, and it's still not working, it's best to say, 'This is it.'"

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