Angels Slugger Josh Hamilton to Join Salt Lake on Thursday for Bees Homestand
SALT LAKE CITY (May 20, 2014) - The Los Angeles Angels announced today that five-time All-Star and 2010 American League MVP Josh Hamilton will join the Bees on Thursday to begin a Major League rehabilitation assignment.
"Josh Hamilton is arguably the highest profile player at this stage of his career to play for the Bees," said Marc Amicone, general manager of the Salt Lake Bees, Triple-A affiliate for the Angels. "We welcome him to Salt Lake City, hope for a successful rehabilitation stint and encourage Bees fans to come out to Smith's Ballpark to watch a hitting superstar in person."
The Bees will finish up their four-game series with Albuquerque at 6:35 p.m. on Thursday night before starting a four-game set with the Fresno Grizzlies. The Bees play at 6:35 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday followed by a 1:05 p.m. game on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26. Tickets are available for all games during the homestand at SmithsTix locations, the Smith's Ballpark box office, by calling 801-325-BEES (2337) or online at slbees.com.
Hamilton is one of the best hitters in MLB and one of only nine players to collect at least 1,000 hits, 175 home runs and 600 RBI since 2007. He has finished in the Top 10 of MVP voting three times, been named a Silver Slugger three times and is one of only 16 players in Major League history to hit four home runs in a single game.
The Angels slugger will be playing in his first live game since undergoing surgery to correct a torn ligament in his thumb. Hamilton suffered the injury on April 8 against Seattle while sliding into first base. Before the injury the left-handed slugger was hitting .444 for the Halos over the first eight games of the season.
In addition to Hamilton's appearance, the Bees homestand for Memorial Day includes a salute to the Armed Forces on Saturday, May 24 at 6:35 p.m. with Military Appreciation Night. The team will don camouflage uniforms and there will be a fireworks show following the game. Members of the military can get a free ticket by presenting their military ID at the Smith's Ballpark box office and can purchase additional tickets for friends and family for half price.