Manfred: MLB's decision on Hamilton probably after opener

NEW YORK (AP) — Commissioner Rob Manfred says a decision on possible discipline against Los Angeles Angels star Josh Hamilton likely will happen after opening day.

Manfred had been hoping for a decision before the Angels start play Monday at Seattle.

"I think that we'll have something on Hamilton in relatively short order — probably has been a little slower just because he's not available to play," Manfred said Wednesday on SiriusXM radio.

Asked whether it would be before opening day, Manfred responded: "shortly after, probably."

Hamilton has had a long history of drug and alcohol abuse, and has been suspended in the past. The Angels said Hamilton met with baseball officials last month, but neither side provided details on the reason for the session.

He is recovering from shoulder surgery and his status for opening day was in jeopardy even before the meeting with MLB.

Hamilton is going into the third season of a $125 million, five-year contract with the Angels. The 33-year-old outfielder has 31 homers and 123 RBIs in two injury-interrupted seasons.

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