Josh Hamilton was named MVP of the American League. An honor he thought would never come to him. Image by Keith Allison.
Even though he was out 25 of the last 30 games, Josh Hamilton still claimed the title of MVP. He was out due to cracked ribs, but the Baseball Writer’s Association of America still voted him in. He is not only the best player in the American League, but also the best player in baseball.
Hamilton really thought being out for so long had ruined his chances of grabbing the title of MVP. Still, he believes that while he was on the field he showed everyone what he was capable of.
This is a huge milepost for Hamilton. He was addicted to alcohol and crack cocaine for four years. The addiction problems threatened his life and his career. It all started after he was chosen in the first round by Tampa Bay back in 1999.
In 2004, he had 2 drug related suspensions and finally made his way back in 2007. It was an emotional day back on the field Opening Day 2007 as he was given a standing ovation.
Hamilton continues to leave his demons behind and move forward. Even he is surprised at his own success. He said there was a 99 percent chance that this would never happen, and he is sure than many would have agreed with him.
He does know that had he tried to accomplish this on his own, it would have never happened. He said, “With God all things are possible.”
Despite his past and his injury, he finished the season with a .359 batting average and .633 slugging percentage in which he had 32 home runs and 100 RBIs. All of which helped the Rangers make their World Series appearance.
