Angel TV Announcer Arrested

Rex Hudler, the Angels’ exuberant television analyst, was arrested Sunday at the Kansas City, Mo., airport and charged with possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, the club confirmed Wednesday.

Hudler was flying back to Southern California on a commercial flight, departing after the Angels’ game earlier in the day against the Kansas City Royals. He did not accompany the team to Minneapolis for a three-game trip that ended there Wednesday because none of those games were televised.

“We have been informed of an incident that took place Sunday night in Kansas City,” said Tim Mead, Angel vice president of communications. “At this point in time, it is a legal matter. Therefore we will have no further comment.”

Hudler did not immediately return phone calls seeking comment. Steve Physioc, the team’s play-by-play announcer, also was unavailable for comment.

The two have worked together for five seasons, with Hudler often spicing up broadcasts with his excited outbursts when things go the team’s way.

Called “the Wonder Dog” during his playing days, which included stints with 18 professional teams, including three seasons with the Angels, Hudler spent 10 seasons in the minor leagues before finally making it to the big leagues.

After his playing days ended, Hudler joined the Angels’ broadcast team and earned a measure of acclaim for his passion for the club and the game of baseball. He clutches a baseball during broadcasts.