Angels already pitching Josh Hamilton to ticket buyers

The Angels have no official comment on Josh Hamilton, but that has not stopped at least one of their employees to drop the slugger’s name in a sales pitch.

In a voice mail message Thursday afternoon -- a message replayed for a Times reporter -- the employee tries to persuade a fan to renew his season-ticket package.

“I’m sure you heard we just signed Josh Hamilton today, so things are getting pretty crazy,” the employee said. “If you are interested, give me a call back as soon as possible.”

He added: “They’re selling out pretty fast.”

The Angels agreed Thursday to a five-year, $125-million contract with Hamilton, who won the American League most valuable player award in 2010 for the rival Texas Rangers. The Angels last season sold more than 3 million tickets for the 10th consecutive season, but their attendance dropped to its lowest level since 2003.

Hamilton is expected to take his physical with the Angels on Friday. The Angels are expected to announce the signing of Hamilton once he passes his physical.

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