AL MVP Josh Hamilton hospitalized with pneumonia

[January 12, 2011]  ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) -- AL MVP Josh Hamilton has been hospitalized with pneumonia.

The Texas Rangers disclosed his condition Tuesday and said Hamilton was diagnosed with an early case Monday. The team expects the hospital to release him by Wednesday.

The Rangers said Hamilton should be able to resume conditioning and baseball activities in a few days.

Hamilton hit .359 with 32 home runs and 100 RBIs last year, continuing his resurgence following cocaine and alcohol addition.

Texas manager Ron Washington has said he wants Hamilton in left field next season to save wear and tear on the All-Star slugger.

Hamilton made 107 starts in center field in 2008, with the total dropping to 55 starts in 2009 and 29 last season. Hamilton missed most of the final month for the AL champions after breaking two ribs when he ran into an outfield wall. Hamilton was in center throughout the playoffs and World Series.

[Associated Press]

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