UPDATE: In a shocking conclusion to the Tyler Skaggs wrongful-death civil trial, Los Angeles Angels president John Carpino labeled the late pitcher a “drug addict and dealer” during his testimony on October 27, 2023. This statement came as the Angels face a lawsuit seeking $118 million from Skaggs’ family, alleging negligence in the handling of employee Eric Kay, who provided the fentanyl-laced pill that led to Skaggs’ death on July 1, 2019.
Carpino’s comments reflect a contentious atmosphere in the courtroom, where he and senior vice president Molly Jolly reiterated claims of ignorance regarding the drug issues of both Skaggs and Kay. “Throughout this case, the Angels have taken the position that Tyler Skaggs is the bad guy,” said lead plaintiffs attorney Rusty Hardin, pressing Carpino during a rapid-fire cross-examination. Carpino countered, stating, “Tyler Skaggs was a drug addict and a drug dealer, and Eric Kay was distributing drugs and a drug addict as well.”
This trial, which began in mid-October, has seen multiple players testify about receiving pills from Skaggs and Kay, though no evidence has emerged proving that Skaggs sold drugs. Kay was convicted in federal court in 2022 for his role in Skaggs’ death. Carpino also expressed doubts about Kay’s legal representation during his criminal trial while acknowledging that the Angels had covered some of Kay’s legal fees.
As the trial nears its conclusion, jurors could begin deliberations as early as Monday afternoon. The defense has faced challenges with time constraints, with lead attorney Todd Theodora stating he had to omit several witnesses due to the trial’s schedule.
Expert testimony has complicated matters further. Defense addiction specialist Dr. Elie Aoun testified that Skaggs had an ongoing addiction at the time of his death, indicating that public admissions of drug use often represent only “the tip of the iceberg.” Jolly asserted that had she known about Kay’s or Skaggs’ drug problems, she would have acted to inform Major League Baseball and help both players seek rehabilitation.
Despite the Angels’ claims of ignorance, the plaintiffs argue that the organization was aware of Kay’s drug issues and failed to take necessary actions, consequently putting Skaggs at risk. “I always want more information and not less information,” Jolly stated, emphasizing her desire to protect employees.
As the courtroom drama unfolds, the stakes are high, with Skaggs’ family fighting for justice and accountability in a case that has captured national attention. The outcome could significantly impact not only the Angels franchise but also the broader conversation about drug addiction in professional sports.
Stay tuned for further updates as jurors prepare to deliberate on this pivotal case.
