Outfielder Josh Hamilton said that the window for the Rangers to negotiate an extension will remain open until spring training, and that his preference is to stay in Texas on a long-term deal. But his contract situation, while a hot topic in the media, is not something that worries him.
"There's nothing to worry about," he said. "I'm focused on this year and doing what I need to do."
Topping the to-do list is staying healthy, and Hamilton said he is on schedule for spring training after having surgery in November for a sports hernia. He started swinging a bat four days ago and will start to see live pitching next month before spring training.
"I've been cleared to do everything," said Hamilton, who was told by his doctor to take an extra week off. "That's exactly what I did, and it hasn't put me behind."
As for his new accountability partner, father-in-law Michael Dean Chadwick, Hamilton said that he doesn't believe he needs someone, but having Chadwick on the road will give peace of mind to the Rangers and MLB.
Hamilton would also welcome Prince Fielder to the club, even though that could lead to the Rangers not having the money to re-sign him next year.
"To imagine him in our lineup, it's pretty ridiculous looking," Hamilton said.
-- Jeff Wilson
Hey Nolen...resign Josh and forget about Fielder.
Posted by: John Q | January 14, 2012 at 05:07 PM
Yeah, Lord knows we need to give a long contract to a high risk player because of sentimental reasons. It's better that Fielder goes and helps another team while Josh is on the bench for breaking another part of his body.
Posted by: Craig | January 16, 2012 at 10:35 AM