UPDATE: In a gripping testimony, Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout revealed he saw no signs of drug use from his late teammate Tyler Skaggs before his tragic overdose in 2019. The testimony unfolded during a major civil trial in Santa Ana, California, where the Angels face claims of negligence related to Skaggs’ death.
Trout’s emotional statements came as he described his deep bond with Skaggs, whom he referred to as a brother. The trial is centered on allegations that the Angels’ communication director Eric Kay provided Skaggs with a fentanyl-laced pill, leading to his fatal overdose during a team trip to Texas. The stakes are high, with Skaggs’ family seeking $118 million in damages for lost earnings and emotional suffering.
In court, Trout recounted cherished memories from their rookie days, highlighting Skaggs’ vibrant personality and sense of humor. However, he also expressed concerns about Kay, noting that he observed Kay acting erratically and suspected drug use. “I just didn’t know what it was,” Trout stated, conveying his worries for Kay’s well-being.
The trial has drawn significant attention, as it examines the Angels’ actions leading up to Skaggs’ death. Skaggs was found dead in a hotel room in Texas, with a coroner’s report indicating he choked on his vomit after consuming a lethal combination of alcohol, fentanyl, and oxycodone.
Kay was previously convicted in 2022 for supplying the counterfeit pill that caused Skaggs’ death and is currently serving a 22-year sentence. The family’s wrongful death lawsuit claims the Angels facilitated Kay’s access to players despite his drug addiction.
Trout’s testimony is expected to be just one of many poignant moments throughout this weekslong trial. Other players, including former Angels pitcher Wade Miley, may also take the stand to share insights into the team’s culture and the events surrounding Skaggs’ passing.
As this trial unfolds, the implications for Major League Baseball are profound. Following Skaggs’ death, MLB implemented new protocols for opioid testing and treatment referrals, aiming to prevent further tragedies within the sport.
Stay tuned for more updates as this urgent trial continues to develop, revealing more about the impact of substance abuse in professional sports and its tragic consequences.