Josh Hamilton Discusses His Life After Baseball and Battle With Addiction in Rare Public Comments

Once upon a time, Josh Hamilton was one of the most powerful and polarizing figures in the game of baseball. In four years with the Texas Rangers from 2008-2012 he managed to win a batting title, an MVP, appear in two World Series, and captivate the country with his unforgettable Home Run Derby showings.

The now 38-year-old, who will be inducted into the franchise's Hall of Fame on Aug. 17, hasn't been spotted at Globe Life Park in nearly three years, and opened up about life after baseball and his struggle with addiction during a Monday interview with Jeff Wilson of the Star Telegram.

In case you were worried about Hamilton's condition after so long out of the spotlight, he appears to be just fine.

When he has custody of his girls, Hamilton is presently a full-time dad, and when he doesn't, is a devoted rancher. Additionally, the five-time All-Star doesn't find himself watching baseball that often because it reminds him of what he could still be doing if not for relapses and injuries.

“I just felt like it was time for me to be with them,” said Hamilton about his decision to retire after the 2017 campaign. “I felt like the girls needed me more than I needed baseball.”

Speaking on the ever-present thought of relapse, Hamilton said the following:

“There’s always thoughts about doing something I shouldn’t do. But that’s going to be rest of my life.Surround yourself with good people, people who love you and people who want you to do good, and now I’ve become a good contributing part of the community."

It truly is wonderful to hear that Hamilton is doing so well. After not hearing of the guy for so long, you just didn't know what kind of update this interview could have brought. Good on you, Josh.

If you'd like to show Josh love in person, his induction ceremony into the Rangers Hall of Fame will take place later this summer.