Hamilton admits alcoholism relapse

ARLINGTON, Texas, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- Texas Rangers outfielder and former American League MVP Josh Hamilton admitted Friday he had suffered a relapse in his battle with alcohol abuse.

A story in The Dallas Morning News this week said Hamilton was seen in a Dallas-area bar Monday.

"I had a weak moment on Monday night in Dallas," Hamilton said at a news conference called to discuss the matter. "I walked into a restaurant to have some dinner and ended up ordering a drink. I had three or four drinks."

He said the incident was brought on due to personal reasons involving a family member.

"No drugs were used at all," Hamilton said. "I never thought about it. I've had two drug tests since Monday, so I have no concerns there at all."

Hamilton, who has had prior drug abuse issues, is tested three times a week. He was suspended for more than three years early in his career due to alcohol and drug abuse.

Hamilton is in the final year of his contract with the Rangers. Texas dropped out of the bidding for free agent slugger Prince Fielder last month due in part to its hopes of re-signing Hamilton.

"As far as baseball and the Rangers, they've shown nothing but support to me and tell me they will continue to support me," Hamilton said. "It would have been nice if we were talking about a contract (at the news conference). We will put that on the back burner for a while."