What is the main accusation against the Los Angeles Angels in Tyler Skaggs' death trial?

The main accusation is that the Angels were negligent in their handling and retention of communications director Eric Kay, knowing about his drug abuse.

Did Eric Kay face criminal charges related to Tyler Skaggs' death?

Yes, Eric Kay is serving 22 years in federal prison for providing the fentanyl-laced pill that led to Skaggs' death.

What is the difference in burden of proof between this civil case and a criminal case?

Civil cases require a preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not), while criminal cases require proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

Home / Sports / Angels Trial: Did Team Enable Pitcher's Death?

Angels Trial: Did Team Enable Pitcher's Death?

16 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Jury heard closing arguments in a civil suit against the Angels over Tyler Skaggs' death.
Skaggs' family claims the team was negligent in handling ex-director Eric Kay's drug abuse.
Angels' defense argued Skaggs was responsible for his own drug use and distribution.

Angels Trial: Did Team Enable Pitcher's Death?

Closing arguments have concluded in a wrongful death civil suit filed by pitcher Tyler Skaggs' family against the Los Angeles Angels. The family's legal team argued the team exhibited negligence by failing to address former communications director Eric Kay's documented drug abuse, contrary to their own policies. They presented evidence suggesting the Angels downplayed Kay's issues and continued to support him.

The Angels' defense, however, focused on Skaggs' personal drug use and distribution, presenting him as the central figure in the clubhouse's opiate abuse. They contended Skaggs, not Kay, was the primary driver, and that the team handled Kay's situation appropriately. This argument sought to shift the responsibility entirely onto the deceased pitcher.