Is Josh Hamilton the next Ranger in line for a contract extension? Jeff Wilson of the Ft. Worth Star-Telegram reports that team brass met with Josh Hamilton's agent on Wednesday to discuss the former AL and ALCS MVP's contract status. Hamilton, who will make $13.75 million this season, is eligible for free agency this upcoming winter.
The Rangers of course recently locked up second baseman Ian Kinsler to a five-year, $75-million extension, and Hamilton would seemingly be the next order of business. Of course, his situation is a bit more complicated.
Hamilton has averaged 114 games played over the last three seasons, and in his five years in the majors he's lost more than 200 games to injury. As well, he'll turn 31 next month, and he has a rather conspicuous history of substance abuse. The Rangers must take into account not only Hamilton's health and personal histories but also the prospect of his decline phase, of which he showed signs last season. Expect GM Jon Daniels to proceed with caution.
