Cincinnati Reds’ Wade Miley Responds to Allegations Linking Him to Tyler Skaggs’ Drug Use

Cincinnati Reds’ Wade Miley Responds to Allegations Linking Him to Tyler Skaggs’ Drug Use

Cincinnati Reds pitcher Wade Miley has recently found himself at the center of controversy after being named one of the alleged drug suppliers involved in the tragic overdose death of fellow player Tyler Skaggs in 2019.

This revelation emerged during a deposition by Skaggs’ former agent, Ryan Hamill, who claimed that Skaggs had mentioned using pain pills containing oxycodone that Miley allegedly supplied. The deposition is a significant part of a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Skaggs’ family against the Los Angeles Angels, the team for which Skaggs played.

A Teammate’s Involvement

Miley and Skaggs were teammates on the Arizona Diamondbacks during the 2012 and 2013 seasons, which adds complexity to the situation. In the deposition, Hamill detailed how Skaggs had confided in him about his struggles with opioids, which were supposedly obtained through Miley.

Miley’s Reaction

Addressing the allegations, Miley took the opportunity to express his condolences for Skaggs’ family. He stated, “I hate what happened to Tyler. It sucks. My thoughts are with his family and friends.” Importantly, Miley stressed that he had never been accused of any wrongdoing and chose not to engage in hypothetical discussions about the claims made against him.

While he has not faced any criminal charges, Miley’s name has previously surfaced in discussions surrounding Skaggs’ death. For example, in a prior court case involving Eric Kay, a former publicist for the Los Angeles Angels, prosecutors referenced statements made by Kay indicating that Miley was one of Skaggs’ suppliers.

The Broader Context

Eric Kay was convicted in Texas of supplying the fentanyl-laced pills that contributed to Skaggs’ death. In 2022, he received a 22-year federal prison sentence, emphasizing the severity of the charges in relation to Skaggs’ tragic passing.

During Kay’s trial, former New York Mets pitcher Matt Harvey admitted to providing drugs to Skaggs during their time together with the Angels, further complicating the narrative around drug use and the culture in Major League Baseball. He, along with other players like C.J. Cron, Mike Morin, and Cam Bedrosian, recounted their own experiences with drug use in the clubhouse.

Repercussions in the League

The revelation of drug use among players, coupled with the legal proceedings, has sparked significant discussions about the responsibility of teams and players regarding substance abuse. With multiple players coming forward to testify about drug use during their time with the Angels, the implications for Major League Baseball are profound.

As the investigation continues, Miley signed a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Reds on June 4 and has since made two starts this season. His career has faced challenges, including undergoing Tommy John surgery on his left elbow in May of 2024, which led to a minor league deal with Cincinnati in February.

The Legacy of Tyler Skaggs

Tyler Skaggs, an accomplished pitcher, was only 27 when he was found dead in a hotel room in Southlake, Texas, ahead of a scheduled game against the Texas Rangers. His passing sent shockwaves through the sports community, igniting conversations about mental health and drug use among athletes.

Skaggs’ family has been adamant in seeking accountability for his death through the wrongful death lawsuit. Their efforts highlight not only the individual tragedy but also the systemic issues within professional sports regarding substance abuse.

Ongoing Investigations

As investigations into Skaggs’ death continue, the focus remains on the broader implications for Major League Baseball, its culture, and the health and wellness of players. The inquiries have prompted many to question the measures in place to prevent drug abuse and ensure a supportive environment for athletes.

The consequences of such revelations extend beyond individual players, shedding light on a culture that has, at times, allowed excessive drug use to permeate the league.

Moving Forward

While Miley’s legal standing remains clear, the discussion surrounding drug use and its impact on athletes persists. The ongoing legal battles may eventually lead to changes within the league aimed at promoting healthier choices and ensuring the well-being of players.

As the news unfolds, many in the sports community hope to see actionable steps taken to address these critical issues, ensuring that no other players face similar tragedies.

As we await further developments, the legacy of Tyler Skaggs continues to resonate, inviting reflection on the responsibilities of teammates, organizations, and the league as a whole in safeguarding player health.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.