Angels manager Scioscia found it ‘disturbing,’ ‘wrong’ Hamilton didn’t thank L.A. teammates

OAKLAND, Calif. – Angels manager Mike Scioscia believes Josh Hamilton was “wrong” not to express remorse to his teammates and missed a key chance before departing Los Angeles to thank them for their support throughout his ordeal.

“I think the support he got here was very strong both from his teammates and from everything we did,” Scioscia said Tuesday before the Angels opened a series at Oakland.

“It’s unfortunate he had his relapse but I know we supported him in every aspect whatever his needs were. Just in hearing some of his comments, the one thing I think is sad and I’m a little bit disappointed is the fact that there wasn’t any accountability, most importantly to his teammates.”

Speaking publicly for the first time since the left fielder’s trade to Texas was finalized, Scioscia said the lack of any kind of recognition for his teammates was disappointing.

“If you look at how much support he got in that clubhouse when he was struggling, whatever was happening, no one ever questioned Josh’s work ethic and wanting to play well. … For him not to show at least a little remorse toward his teammates I just think is wrong,” Scioscia said.

“There’s a strong bond in our clubhouse, and guys support each other. That’s the same support they gave Josh. That’s why it’s a little disturbing that he never addressed that or said anything about the players.”

The Angels are responsible for $105 million over the five-year deal, with Texas paying $6 million and Hamilton giving up $14 million.

The 33-year-old former AL MVP hasn’t played this season while rehabilitating his surgically repaired right shoulder. He had a self-reported cocaine and alcohol relapse during the off-season.

“We had a bunch of tests and counselling ready to support him, and make sure that he had the tools to come back and meet the rigours of playing major league baseball,” Scioscia said. “And obviously with the trade, that has fallen on whatever Texas is going to do. But I’m concerned with Josh the person. I think that he needs to get that help and support, and hopefully he’ll find some peace.”