Yankees willing to pay for Doc Gooden’s drug treatment
The Yankees have told Doc Gooden’s friends they are willing to pay for treatment for the former pitcher’s alleged drug problems, reportsThe New York Daily News.
Both Gooden’s former teammate Darryl Strawberry and addiction counselor Ron Dock told the Daily News the Yankees have reached out to them asking how they can help Gooden. A Yankees spokesman confirmed their comments.
Earlier this week, Strabwerry told the Daily News that Gooden is currently dealing with a cocaine problem, and expressed concern for his wellbeing.
“The Yankees saw the story,” Strawberry said, “And they called me and said, 'What can we do to help?' A lot of individuals have reached out to me too, but for the Yankees to show that type of support to Doc, I'm very grateful to them for that.”
Dock, who has worked with Gooden since 1995, said the Yankees have always supported the embattled pitcher.
“They said they're willing to pay for Dwight's treatment, which is a huge gesture on their behalf,” Dock said. “They've always tried to do right by Dwight, going back to George Steinbrenner when he gave him a chance to play again.”
Gooden and Strawberry played together with the Mets from 1984–1990, and again with the Yankees from 1996–97. Both dealt with numerous drug problems during their careers.
Gooden has denied any current issues with cocaine.
