Hamilton reporteldy suffers relapse By QMI Agency

Rangers batter Josh Hamilton reacts after grounding out against the Cardinals at Busch Stadium in St.Louis, Miss., Oct. 28, 2011. (EZRA SHAW/Getty Images/AFP)

Texas Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton, who is a recovering alcoholic and drug addict, has reportedly suffered a relapse.

The four-time all-star and former AL MVP was spotted Monday drinking alcohol at Sherlock's Pub & Grill in Dallas, according to the Dallas Morning News.

Teammate Ian Kinsler was also at the bar in an apparent attempt to persuade Hamilton to return home.

The Rangers issued a statement saying that they are "aware of a situation but have no further comment at this time."

This is Hamilton's second alcohol-related relapse in three years. In January 2009, he drank to excess at a bar in Tempe, Ariz.

The first overall selection in the 1999 MLB draft, Hamilton did not play any baseball between 2003 and 2005 due to his addictions. He decided to make a comeback in 2006 and had his major-league debut in April 2007. Hamilton claims to have been sober since October 2005.