WonderBoy 2008
January 20, 2026In being the first overall pick in the major league draft over 10 years ago, Josh Hamilton was pegged to be the cog that the Tampa Bay Rays hoped to build their organization around. His life went in turmoil due to a serious drug problem that got him kicked out of baseball and a return to baseball was seriously in doubt. Down on his luck, now with a wife and a family he somehow managed to get his act together. It was then baseball ended Josh’s drug suspension, and allowed him back for one last try. In minor league play, he showed that despite being away from competition all these years, the talent still remained. The Reds gave him a shot and he did not dissapoint and it turned into the feel good story : Is Josh Hamilton Wonderboy?
Now, fast forward one year and the journey continues, but the story has changed a little bit. This off-season Josh Hamilton was the subject of trade rumors, and eventually he was traded to the Texas Rangers for Right handed starter Edinson Volquez and near MLB ready left handed reliever Daniel Herrera.
The good thing about this deal for Josh is he heads to Arlington as the CF starter for the Rangers. Although the numbers say Texas is not as great of a park for MLB hitters, I still think Texas is a good hitters park. Josh is walking into a good place for him with the year of success under his belt and a nice array of quality young players. Hamilton’s competition Marlon Byrd is the subject of trade rumors, and more than likely could be playing elsewhere in 2008.
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American League, Cubs, Josh Hamilton, MLB, National League, Rangers, Rays, Reds, Trade, Trade Rumors | 
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Posted by davidbloom
