What's happened
Camela Kay testified in a California court about her ex-husband Eric Kay's drug dealings, which contributed to the 2019 death of Angels pitcher Tyler Skaggs. The trial examines team responsibility amid allegations of drug access and misconduct, with Skaggs' family seeking $118 million in damages.
What's behind the headline?
The trial highlights systemic issues within professional sports organizations regarding drug oversight and player safety. Camela Kay's testimony reveals that team officials were aware of her husband's erratic behavior and drug problems, yet failed to prevent his access to players or intervene effectively. This case underscores the potential consequences of neglecting substance abuse protocols, which can lead to tragic outcomes like Skaggs' death. The lawsuit aims to hold the Angels accountable for alleged negligence, potentially setting a precedent for stricter oversight and responsibility in sports teams. The broader implications include increased scrutiny of MLB's drug policies and the need for comprehensive mental health and addiction support for athletes and staff. The case also raises questions about the culture of secrecy and the responsibility of teams to prioritize player health over reputation, with the potential for significant legal and financial repercussions for the franchise.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Camela Kay detailed her concerns about her husband's drug use and the team's awareness of his erratic behavior, including a hospital overdose and drug-related incidents at the stadium. The NY Post emphasizes the ongoing legal battle, noting the family's $118 million claim and the broader context of MLB's opioid testing reforms. Both sources highlight the significance of the case in addressing accountability within professional sports, with The Independent providing detailed testimony and background, while the NY Post underscores the legal and policy implications. The coverage illustrates a complex intersection of sports culture, legal accountability, and public health concerns, with the case serving as a potential catalyst for reform in athlete welfare and team oversight.
How we got here
Tyler Skaggs, a pitcher for the Angels, died in 2019 from a toxic mix of alcohol, fentanyl, and oxycodone. Eric Kay, the team's communications director, was convicted in 2022 of supplying Skaggs with a counterfeit pill laced with fentanyl. The case has led to a wrongful-death lawsuit against the Angels, alleging negligence in allowing Kay access to players despite his drug issues. The trial is part of ongoing efforts to address opioid abuse in Major League Baseball and hold teams accountable for misconduct.
Go deeper
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The Los Angeles Angels are an American professional baseball team based in the city of Anaheim, California, part of Orange County and the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
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Tyler Wayne Skaggs was an American professional baseball starting pitcher, who played in Major League Baseball for the Arizona Diamondbacks and Los Angeles Angels.
The Angels selected Skaggs in the first round of the 2009 MLB draft.