Well it looks like Josh Hamilton's bar tab might've become a bit pricier than expected. Hamilton and the Texas Rangers had been discussing possible long-term contract extensions following two breakout seasons that saw the Texas make back-to-back appearances in the Fall Classic. However, those talks have been put on hold indefinitely by GM Jon Daniels and Hamilton's people.
Hamilton's camp had initially been eye-balling the money that had been doled out to newly signed free-agents Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder, banking on the possibility of cashing in on a similar deal. However, the Rangers had already planned to present Hamilton a much more conservative contract, then continue negotiations from there.
The conundrum for the Rangers is that Hamilton isn't their only contract that they must consider re-signing. Other stars like Nelson Cruz and Ian Kinsler will be looking to hit their respective payday's and believe it or not, there's only so much money that Rangers will be willing to spend.
Hamilton has made a statement saying he will not discuss a new contract once the Rangers open up Spring Training, the Rangers will have to decide soon on what to do with their stud outfielder as he will become a free agent after the 2012 campaign.