Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout recently provided testimony in a civil trial concerning the tragic 2019 death of his teammate Tyler Skaggs. Skaggs, who was found dead from an overdose in a Texas hotel room, had struggled with substance abuse prior to his passing. During the proceedings, Trout emphasized his affection for Skaggs, calling him a brother and asserting that he never observed any indicators of drug use.
Background on Tyler Skaggs’ Death
Skaggs died on July 1, 2019, in a hotel room in suburban Dallas. His death occurred just before a scheduled series against the Texas Rangers. A coroner’s report revealed that a combination of alcohol, fentanyl, and oxycodone contributed to his death. Skaggs choked on his vomit, highlighting the severity of his situation.
Trial Focus
The trial centers around a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Skaggs’ widow, Carli, and his parents. They claim the Angels organization, particularly Eric Kay, the team’s communications director at the time, was negligent in allowing Kay access to players despite his drug addiction. Kay was later convicted in 2022 for providing Skaggs with a counterfeit pill laced with fentanyl and received a 22-year prison sentence.
Mike Trout’s Testimony
Throughout his testimony, Trout described his close bond with Skaggs, reminiscing about sharing a room as rookies. He noted Skaggs’ personality, describing him as funny and outgoing, who often entertained teammates with his boom box.
Concerns About Eric Kay
Trout revealed his concerns regarding Kay’s behavior, stating that he had witnessed Kay acting unusually and sweating profusely, which led him to suspect drug use. Despite these observations, Trout said he was unaware of the extent of Kay’s addiction.
Legal Proceedings and Financial Impact
The plaintiffs are pursuing $118 million in damages, which includes lost earnings and compensation for pain and suffering. Skaggs, who had been a key player for the Angels since late 2016 after being drafted out of high school, faced recurring injuries in his career.
Aftermath and Changes in MLB Policies
In the wake of Skaggs’ death, Major League Baseball established a partnership with the Players Association to implement testing for opioids. This initiative includes referrals for players who test positive, aimed at addressing substance abuse in the sport.
Looking Ahead
The trial is expected to last several weeks, with additional testimonies from other players, including former Angels pitcher Wade Miley. As the proceedings unfold in Santa Ana, the focus remains on the serious issue of drug use within professional sports and its tragic consequences.
