Josh Hamilton was the number one draft choice of the Tampa Devil Rays in 1999. He had all the tools, plus he was handsome and articulate. The world was his, except – for drugs and alcohol. He posted fantastic numbers in his minor league career, but the problems prevented him from joining the major leagues until 2007. By 2008, Josh was elected to the first of five All Star teams and featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated. He was being compared to Ted Williams. In 2010, he batted .359, 32 HRs, 100 RBIs, and was voted the AL MVP. In 2012 he signed a $125 million, 5-year contract with the LA Angels and received more votes for the All Star game than any player in the history of All Star games. In his 9-year career, he averaged .290, 32 HRs, 111 RBIs.
However, relapses to his drug addiction followed him to three teams, and consequently, there were times, he could not be counted on to play. The problems became nationally known in 2009. The numerous suspensions and time off for rehab made him a very expensive asset. His career ended in 2015 when he was released by the Texas Rangers, citing knee injury problems.
His personal life suffered as well. There was a divorce in 2015 and several assault charges, including an assault incident with his 14 year old daughter in 2019. He rehabbed and has become an active voice in promoting drug prevention.
Thanks for the Article..I had not thought of him in years..You would have thought his name would have been mentioned with the Rangers in the WS..How are You feeling these days? You are going to call if come down within 50 miles of here..Best,Chas