Nolan Ryan Expects Josh Hamilton to Test Free Agency

Nolan Ryan said yesterday that he expects Josh Hamilton and his agent to test the free agent market after the 2012 season.  Ryan spoke with reporters, including T.R. Sullivan of MLB.com, saying that the Texas Rangers have “put their best foot forward” when it’s come to contract talks with Hamilton.  However, Ryan doesn’t expect negotiations with Hamilton to be resolved until the offseason.

Hamilton is off to a torrid start this season, posting a line of .392/.444/.804 with 18 home runs, five doubles 45 RBIs and 33 runs scored over his first 37 games and 143 at-bats.  These marks have Hamilton ranking second in the majors in batting average, sixth in on base percentage, second in runs scored and first in slugging percentage, OPS, home runs (by 5), and RBIs (by 10).

Entering the year, Hamilton was set to become one of the premier free agents on the market next winter if he was unable to reach an agreement with the Rangers.  After his ridiculous start Hamilton’s status has risen even more, as he’s now entered the realm of Triple Crown talk and best all-around player in the majors.

Ryan said that he believes the Rangers have done what they can to lock up Hamilton, though he’s not sure what other teams are willing to throw at the soon-to-be 31-year-old.  Ryan doesn’t believe a resolution will be had in the Hamilton situation until “the end of November or December”.

Hamilton is showing just how good he can be and has a solid track record of production with a career line of .313/.371/.558.  Still, there are questions surrounding Hamilton, mainly involving his injury history and past struggles with dependency issues.

For these reasons some believe that a team may be more willing to give Hamilton big money over a shorter-term deal.  However, if Hamilton’s production continues, you can bet that he and his agent will want to be rewarded with big money and a long-term contract.

For more on the Rangers be sure to check out Nolan Writin’.