Josh Hamilton's Wonderful Comeback

After being the top overall pick in baseball's free agent draft of 1999, Hamilton showed promise early on in minor league ball, and looked like he was a star in the making. But, he battled injuries and a serious car accident that kept him off the field.

Along the way, the quiet kid from Raleigh, NC found himself with an addiction to cocaine. He was unsuccessful early on battling this addiction, and eventually was kicked out of the game for several years and looked like he would never resume his playing career. He did have several setbacks. But, with a family now in his life, he got the support he so much needed and was able to stay clean. Baseball eventually let him back in, and the Reds took a shot on him.

Josh Hamilton took advantage of the opportunity; he tore the cover off the ball in Spring Training, and made the opening day 25 man roster. On opening day, he got the call on the bench, and made his Major League debut. As I wrote in a short preview last year making the claim Is Josh Hamilton Wonderboy?:"At the age of 25, he is not the 35-year-old player the Robert Redford played in that incredible movie The Natural. However, what Josh has been through just to get to this point sure parallels the story."

Josh not only showed he belonged but went on to become the starting outfielder for the Reds. He showed the ability to hit the long ball, and his bat speed was still in existence.