In a somber moment for Major League Baseball, the community reflected on the tragic passing of Los Angeles Angels pitcher Tyler Skaggs in 2019. Skaggs, whose promising career was cut short at the age of 27 due to a drug overdose, left behind a legacy that turned into a cautionary tale about substance abuse in sports. His family pursued a wrongful death lawsuit against the Angels, seeking damages reaching up to $210 million, amplifying the voices of those demanding accountability.
The aftermath of Skaggs’ death led to serious legal consequences. Eric Kay, formerly the Angels’ communications director, found himself serving a 22-year prison sentence for supplying the late pitcher with drugs. However, Kay was not the lone figure implicated in this disturbing narrative. New information emerging from court documents suggests that Skaggs had other sources within baseball, including a former Milwaukee Brewers pitcher.
In recently leaked documents from the ongoing civil lawsuit, an unexpected name surfaced: Wade Miley, a pitcher now with the Cincinnati Reds, who previously donned the Brewers jersey in two stints. The documents reveal details from a deposition by Skaggs’ former agent, Ryan Hamill, presented in a motion by the Angels. Hamill recounted a time in 2013 when he grew concerned over Skaggs’ drug use. It was then that Skaggs allegedly admitted to obtaining prescription drugs, particularly Percocets, from Miley during their tenure with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2013.
The connection between Miley and Skaggs didn’t only appear in civil court. Miley’s name also came up during the criminal proceedings involving Kay. Federal prosecutors disclosed a recorded phone call between Kay and his mother, where Miley was mentioned as a drug source for Skaggs.
Wade Miley has chosen not to comment on these allegations, and importantly, he hasn’t faced any criminal charges or formal accusations. Despite the murmurs and whispers of controversy, the details remain clouded in legal ambiguity and personal privacy. Ryan Hamill also refrained from further statements regarding the deposition.
Wade Miley’s career journey took him to Milwaukee, where he pitched for the Brewers in 2018 and then returned for the 2023-24 seasons. During his time there, he posted a notable record of 14-7 with an impressive 3.03 ERA across 41 starts. His desire to return to Milwaukee before the 2025 season was met with mutual interest, yet contract negotiations failed to materialize. Today, with the Cincinnati Reds, Miley stands with a 1-0 record and a 9.00 ERA over two outings this season.
This unfolding narrative, steeped in personal tragedy and professional crossroads, continues to be a stark reminder of the human elements underlying the world of professional sports. As these stories unfurl, the hope is that they lead to safer environments and more vigilant practices within the league.
