MLB Rumors: Josh Hamilton to Skip Suspension for Cocaine Relapse

Josh Hamilton, the outfielder for the Los Angeles Angels, will not be suspended for his drug relapse.

The decision was made by an independent arbitrator, who concluded that a one-time use should not result in a suspension. The arbitrator was brought in after Major League Baseball and the MLB Players Association were at a standstill.

ESPN.com explained, "A four-person treatment board created by baseball's joint drug program, which includes one lawyer and one medical representative each appointed by management and the players' association, deadlocked 2-2 on whether Hamilton should be disciplined. That caused the need for an arbitrator to break the tie."

Hamilton, 33, self-reported his relapse, which occurred during the offseason. He had used cocaine and alcohol, substances that he has had a long history with. As a part of his drug-treatment program, he was not allowed to use drugs or alcohol or else he would risk suspension.

The arbitrator concluded even though Hamilton relapse, he still did not fail to comply with his drug-treatment program.

A part of MLB's statement read:

"Under the procedures of the Program, an outside arbitrator was appointed to break the tie, and the arbitrator ruled that Josh Hamilton's conduct did not violate his treatment program. As a result of that decision, the Office of the Commissioner is not permitted to suspend or impose any discipline on Hamilton. The Office of the Commissioner disagrees with the decision, and will seek to address deficiencies in the manner in which drugs of abuse are addressed under the Program in the collective bargaining process."

Hamilton was represented by lawyers Jay Reisinger and Tina Miller.

Hamilton, the 2010 AL MVP, is a five-time All-Star. He signed a five-year deal worth $125 million with the Angels in December 2012. In 2014, Hamilton only played in 89 games due to injuries He batted .263 and recorded 10 homers and 44 RBIs.