Texas Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton, who has spoken openly about the alcohol and substance-abuse problems he has battled for most of his professional career, suffered a setback this week, a major league source has confirmed to FOX Sports Southwest.
The incident occurred Monday night at Sherlock's Pub and Grill in Dallas, where Hamilton was seen drinking alcohol, according to the source. Hamilton's teammate, second baseman Ian Kinsler, went to the bar in an attempt to get the Rangers All-Star outfielder to return to his Westlake home, the source confirms.
"We are aware of a situation but have no further comment at this time," the Rangers said in a statement.
The Dallas Morning News first reported the incident.
This is the second relapse for Hamilton since he joined the Rangers in 2007. Before spring training in 2009, Hamilton admitted to drinking at an Arizona bar.
The latest setback continues what has already been a tumultuous offseason for Hamilton, who turns 31 on May 21.
He had surgery following the World Series for a hernia as well as to repair torn abductors in his left leg. Hamilton also lost his in-season accountability coach in Johnny Narron, who came with Hamilton from Cincinnati in the trade after the 2007 season. In addition to working with the club, Narron helped Hamilton through his addiction problems on the road.
Narron left to become the hitting coach for Milwaukee. Hamilton said at the time he wasn't sure he needed someone in that role anymore but was willing to have a person fill that role if the Rangers felt it was necessary.
Michael Dean Chadwick, Hamilton's father-in-law, was supposed to take the job but backed out earlier this month because of family commitments in North Carolina.
Hamilton said last week he had someone in mind for the job but had to talk with the club about it.
The Hamilton setback, if true, also could cloud his future with the Rangers. He is entering the final year of a two-year, $24 million contract. The Rangers said two weeks ago that signing Hamilton to a long-term deal was a priority for the club.
Hamilton, the No. 1 overall pick in the 1999 draft, was suspended from baseball as a minor leaguer in February 2004 because of his addiction problems. He didn't play again until late in the 2006 season, still in the minors. He made his major league debut with Cincinnati in 2007.
