URGENT UPDATE: In a pivotal moment in the ongoing civil trial over the overdose death of Tyler Skaggs, Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout testified today, revealing he never witnessed any signs of drug use from his late teammate. This dramatic testimony comes as the family of Skaggs seeks $118 million in damages, alleging the Angels organization shares responsibility for Skaggs’ tragic overdose on a team trip in July 2019.
Trout took the stand in Santa Ana, California, to discuss his close bond with Skaggs, who he described as “very funny, outgoing, and fun to be around.” He recounted their friendship beginning as rookies, emphasizing how Skaggs brought joy to the team, often serving as the deejay with a boom box.
As the trial unfolds, Trout spoke candidly about his interactions with Eric Kay, the Angels’ former communication director, who was convicted in 2022 for providing Skaggs with a counterfeit pill laced with fentanyl. Trout noted that while Kay was skilled at his job, he had observed concerning behavior, stating, “He was acting wired and sweating,” leading him to suspect drug use.
“I just didn’t know what it was,” Trout told the court, recalling his offer to Kay for help. This raises critical questions about the team’s internal culture and their awareness of Kay’s struggles with addiction.
The trial centers around whether the Angels should be held accountable for enabling Kay, who was reportedly addicted to drugs at the time. Skaggs’ family argues that the organization made reckless decisions that allowed Kay access to players, potentially contributing to the fatal incident.
In a tragic twist, a coroner’s report revealed that Skaggs choked on his vomit after consuming a lethal mix of alcohol, fentanyl, and oxycodone. His death occurred just days before a scheduled game against the Texas Rangers in Arlington, Texas. The family’s lawsuit argues for compensation not only for lost earnings but also for pain and suffering endured due to the loss of their son and husband.
The emotional weight of the trial is palpable, as other players, including Wade Miley, are expected to testify in the coming weeks, further shedding light on the culture surrounding drug use in Major League Baseball.
Following Skaggs’ death, Major League Baseball initiated new protocols, including opioid testing, reflecting a growing awareness of the crisis within the sport. The outcome of this trial could have significant implications for player safety and organizational accountability moving forward.
As this trial continues to develop, all eyes will be on the courtroom in Santa Ana, where the tragic legacy of Tyler Skaggs is being examined.
Stay tuned for further updates as we monitor this critical case.
