What's happened
A civil trial in California is examining whether the Angels team knew or should have known about drug issues linked to Tyler Skaggs' 2019 death. Testimony from players, team officials, and Skaggs' family highlights alleged drug distribution and team responsibility, with closing arguments scheduled soon.
What's behind the headline?
The civil trial underscores ongoing concerns about drug use in professional sports and team accountability. The testimony reveals a culture where drug distribution occurred in private settings, complicating team responsibility. The Angels' legal defense claims ignorance, but the president, John Carpino, acknowledged that both Skaggs and Kay were addicts and involved in drug distribution. This case could set a precedent for how sports organizations handle drug-related issues and their liability. The outcome will likely influence MLB policies, including drug testing protocols and team oversight, aiming to prevent similar tragedies. The case also highlights the broader issue of substance abuse in high-pressure environments, emphasizing the need for systemic change to protect athletes.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that the trial has included testimony from Mike Trout and team officials, with Angels' president John Carpino expressing regret for not knowing sooner about drug issues. The article notes that Skaggs' family contends the team was aware or should have been aware of Kay's drug dealing, while the team's lawyers argue activities occurred in private, outside team oversight. AP News emphasizes the legal proceedings and the tragic circumstances of Skaggs' death, highlighting the toxicology report and Kay's conviction. Both sources reveal a complex legal battle over responsibility, with the trial set to conclude soon. The Independent provides insight into the internal reflections of team leadership, while AP News offers a detailed account of the criminal and civil proceedings, illustrating the broader implications for MLB and athlete safety.
How we got here
Tyler Skaggs, a 27-year-old Angels pitcher, died in 2019 from a toxic mix of alcohol, fentanyl, and oxycodone. The death followed drug distribution by team communications director Eric Kay, who was convicted in 2022. The lawsuit alleges the team was aware or should have been aware of drug issues among players.
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John Carpino is an American baseball executive. He is president of the Los Angeles Angels of Major League Baseball. He was named the eighth President in Angels history on Nov. 14, 2009 following six seasons as the Club's Senior Vice President of Sales and
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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.
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Michael Nelson Trout is an American professional baseball center fielder for the Los Angeles Angels of Major League Baseball. Trout is an eight-time MLB All-Star, three-time American League Most Valuable Player, and is a seven-time winner of the Silver Sl