Josh Hamilton Declines Home Derby Invite

Josh Hamilton was offered the opportunity to captain the American League Home Run Derby team, but he declined

according to an Associated Press report.  Hamilton, who many know for his off-field struggles and redemption, has quite the history in the Home Run Derby.  In 2008 he hit 28 home runs in the first round of the Derby.  It was a show unparalleled by anything we had ever seen.

”I haven’t done it in the last couple years,” Hamilton said. “I want to be healthy and be the best I can be for the team. I don’t want to take a chance of going out and hurting anything trying to entertain folks in the (Derby). That’s why I declined again.”

Hamilton is hitting .345/.403/.709 with 21 home runs so far this year.  He leads the league in home runs and slugging percentage.  The Rangers, with Hamilton’s offensive power, are leading the American League West by 4.5 gams over the Angels.  However, the Angels have closed the gap quickly in the last few weeks, and Texas will need all the help they can get to hold off the surging Halos.

Since Hamilton declined to participate in the Home Run Derby, Robinson Cano will instead captain the American League team.  Cano won the Home Run Derby last year and set a final round record with 12 bombs.  Cano was just the second second baseman to win the State Farm Home Run Derby (Ryne Sandberg was the first).  Cano is currently hitting .290/.349/.505 with 8 home runs.

Much of Josh Hamilton’s concern about participating in the Derby likely comes down to the fact that he is in a contract year.  He and the Rangers have not been able to work out an extension, and Hamilton could become a free agent at the end of this season.  As such, Hamilton, who has shown a propensity for injury in years past, understandably wants to make sure he is as healthy as possible this season and not put unnecessary strain on his body.