Josh Hamilton, the superstar of the Texas Rangers made a mistake Monday night and he admits it. The recovering alcoholic fell off the wagon and had “3-4 drinks” at a bar near Dallas. But rather than duck and hide like many athletes do, Hamilton stepped up to the microphone on Friday and apologized for his actions, saying he had a “weak moment” while promising to take the steps necessary to rehabilitate his life
.
The 2010 American League MVP has had a long history of drug and alcohol abuse, resulting in a three-year suspension from baseball early in his career. In 2011, Hamilton hit .298 with 25 home runs and 94 RBI, impressive numbers considering he missed 36 games of the season with a broken arm while sliding into home plate.
Hamilton is in the last year of a contract that will pay him $13.75 million this year, but the relapse won’t help his cause. Contract negotiations are now on hold for the 30-year old player, while the Texas Rangers figure out his future with the club. Some baseball analysts predict Hamilton that Hamilton has struck out and will never sign a long-term deal with the Rangers.
The bottom line here is that Hamilton still has miles to go in his rehabilitation – it’s a never ending process that he must take one day at a time. But at least he’s taking responsibility for his actions and vowing to learn from his mistakes – and that’s the first step on the road to recovery.
