The Los Angeles Dodgers quietly made a significant move on Wednesday by extending the contract of former outfielder Andrew Toles, as reported by the Associated Press.
Toles, now 31, hasn’t played in the majors since 2018, having been on the restricted list since March 2019 due to mental health struggles, including a diagnosis of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. It’s uncertain if he’ll return to professional baseball. However, the Dodgers have chosen to renew his contract each spring to ensure he maintains access to health insurance, demonstrating a surprising act of compassion in an industry often criticized for its lack of humanity.
Toles had a notable stint with the Dodgers from 2016 to 2018, appearing in 96 games and delivering impressive performances, including a remarkable showing in the 2016 National League Championship Series. However, since his departure from the team, he has faced numerous challenges related to his mental health. His father, Alvin Toles, has taken legal guardianship of him after incidents like being found sleeping at a Florida airport following an arrest in 2020.
Alvin Toles has expressed the difficulties they face due to Andrew’s schizophrenia, emphasizing his desire for his son to have a chance at a normal life. Despite the hardships, both the Toles family and the Dodgers seem to share the same wish for Andrew’s well-being.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has expressed his longing to reconnect with Toles, highlighting the genuine care and concern within the organization for his welfare.
For those not versed in Major League Baseball’s terminology, teams have the option to “renew” contracts of players who aren’t eligible for arbitration each spring. This means extending their contract for another year. The “restricted list” is a formal designation that allows a team to retain a player’s rights without including them on the active roster.
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