(image culled from Sports Rubbish)
When he wasn’t quoting scripture (and lines from that great religious epic, “The Waterboy”, Rangers OF Josh Hamilton told an assembled Spring Training media throng earlier today that he’s not inclined to let his recent alcohol relapse diminish his bargaining power with Texas. From the Dallas Morning News’ Evan P. Grant :
“The Rangers have done great things for me,” Hamilton said. “Let me ask you a question: Have I done great things for the Rangers? I think I’ve given everything I had. This is still a business. It’s the entertainment business, but it’s still a business.
“I love Texas. I love my fans. I love fans of the Rangers. I love the organization. I love my teammates. I love everything about it. But I’m not going to sit here and say that I owe the Rangers. I don’t feel like I owe the Rangers.”
Hamilton was asked if he would reward himself a long-term contract, if he had the opportunity to decide.
“It’s not for me to make that decision,” Hamilton said. “I hate that this happened. They have been very good to me. But I know I will play baseball. I know God has taken care of me and provided for my family. I’m not going to just jump at whatever might be the first thing offered me. I’m confident in my sobriety. I’m confident in my family’s support. I’m here and I’m going to play baseball.”